Receptor research for the development of new drug therapies for stimulant addiction

Abstract

Drug addiction is associated with a range of medical and social problems, not least the negative side effects experienced by those who take drugs. The long-term effects are particularly concerning and can be difficult to treat. Changes in the behaviour of long-term drug users can include impulsivity and irrationality, which can negatively impact on society. Dr Kyoji Okita, Integrative Brain Imaging Center (IBIC), National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan, is working to shed light on the neurological biochemistry behind drug addiction, as this aspect is little understood. In his work, he is collaborating with experts and he intends to apply the knowledge he and his collaborators uncover to real-world treatments. A particular focus for Okita is the use of positron emission tomography (PET) to explore the dynamics behind psychological and addiction biology. Currently, he is investigating the potential of a drug called Istradefylline as a treatment for methamphetamine use disorder. The drug is currently used as part of the treatment for Parkinson's disease and Okita wants to decipher if administering Istradefylline to people addicted to methamphetamines can help increase their dopamine sensitivity and, in the process, reduce their reliance on the drug, as well as the psychological side effects. If found to be effective, Istradefylline could form a key part of a treatment programme for addiction.