Several studies suggest possible serotonergic involvement in the neurobiology of alcoholism. To evaluate this possibility we administered the serotonin agonist m-chlorophenylpiperazine (m-CPP) to alcoholics, and controls. By observing the drug-induced behavioral effects and measuring changes in prolactin, cortisol and ACTH we hope to make inferences about post-synaptic serotonin function in subjects with alcoholism. Our results indicate alcoholics with an early onset of drinking-related problems (Type II) are statistically more likely to """"""""desire a drink of alcohol"""""""" following IV administration of m-CPP than late onset alcoholics (Type I) or controls. This desire does not appear to be the result of drug induced anxiety.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01AA000273-03
Application #
3801959
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code