Severity of withdrawal symptoms from alcohol was quantified in alcoholics admitted to the Neurology Ward of the Washington, DC VA Hospital. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were repeatedly obtained early during withdrawal after all symptoms had subsided. Concentrations of the monoamine neurotransmitter norepinephrine and its major metabolite MHPG were measured at NIH. Significant positive correlations were observed between indices of elevated norepinephrine turnover and several signs of alcohol withdrawal. We are currently measuring peptides known to be released in synapses simultaneously with norepinephrine. We are have completed our sample collection and are analyzing the data. This project has been terminated because Dr. James Hawley has left the Washington V.A. Medical Center. A manuscript is in preparation.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01AA000238-11
Application #
3767567
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
11
Fiscal Year
1993
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code