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Safety and efficacy of baclofen in the treatment of alcohol-dependent patients.

Authors :
Addolorato G
Leggio L
Source :
Current pharmaceutical design [Curr Pharm Des] 2010; Vol. 16 (19), pp. 2113-7.
Publication Year :
2010

Abstract

Preclinical studies show that antagonism of the GABA(B) receptor may represent an effective neuropharmacological approach to treat alcohol dependence. Consistent with preclinical evidence, the majority of the human studies have demonstrated that the prototype GABA(B) receptor antagonist baclofen may represent an effective mediation to treat alcohol-dependent individuals. Specifically, baclofen has shown to reduce alcohol withdrawal symptoms, as well as to reduce alcohol craving and intake, and to promote alcohol abstinence. Notably, baclofen has shown a safe profile when administered to alcoholics, including those with liver cirrhosis. In summary, baclofen represents a safe and effective medication to treat alcohol dependence, thus holding promise as a new pharmacotherapy. However, large studies are needed to confirm the present findings.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1873-4286
Volume :
16
Issue :
19
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Current pharmaceutical design
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
20482507
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.2174/138161210791516440