Alternative reinforcers differentially modify cocaine self-administration by humans

Area of Science:

• Addiction research
• Behavioral economics
• Psychopharmacology

Background:

• Cocaine abuse remains a significant public health issue.
• Understanding factors influencing drug-seeking behavior is crucial for developing effective interventions.
• Alternative reinforcers can be used to decrease drug self-administration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of money vouchers versus merchandise vouchers as alternative reinforcers for cocaine.
• To investigate the dose-dependent effects of cocaine on self-administration when alternative rewards are available.

Main Methods:

• An inpatient study involving six experienced cocaine smokers.
• A six-trial choice procedure comparing smoked cocaine doses (0-50 mg) against $5 money or merchandise vouchers.
• Eight sessions, each pairing a specific cocaine dose with one type of voucher.

Main Results:

• Cocaine self-administration increased significantly with higher cocaine doses.
• Participants chose to self-administer significantly less cocaine when offered money vouchers compared to merchandise vouchers.
• Money vouchers demonstrated a stronger deterrent effect on cocaine use than merchandise vouchers.

Conclusions:

• Money vouchers are more effective than merchandise vouchers in reducing cocaine self-administration among individuals with a history of cocaine abuse.
• These findings have implications for designing contingency management programs for substance use disorders.
• The study highlights the importance of the type of alternative reinforcer in modifying drug-taking behavior.