Atomoxetine partially restores loss sensitivity in cocaine use disorder

Abstract:

Background: Addiction is extremely difficult to treat due to high relapse rates. One factor contributing to relapse could be impaired decision-making. Patients with substance mis- use disorders have previously been shown to have deficits in the Cambridge Gambling Task, a test of decision-making [1]. A pharmacological intervention that alleviates im- pairments may reduce relapse. Atomoxetine blocks nora- drenaline reuptake, and in the prefrontal cortex also in- creases dopamine levels. This is similar to recreational psy- chostimulants, but atomoxetine has low abuse potential be- cause it does not increase striatal dopamine levels [2].