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6-beta-naltrexol reduces alcohol consumption in rats
M R Rukstalis1, M F Stromberg, C P O'Brien
1Treatment Research Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104, USA. rukstalis@research.trc.upenn.edu
Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research
|October 25, 2000
Summary
6-beta-naltrexol, a metabolite of naltrexone, significantly reduced alcohol consumption in rats. This finding suggests potential clinical use for 6-beta-naltrexol in treating alcohol dependence.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Addiction Research
Background:
- 6-beta-naltrexol is the primary human metabolite of naltrexone.
- Naltrexone is an opiate antagonist effective in reducing alcohol consumption.
- The specific role of 6-beta-naltrexol in naltrexone's efficacy is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of 6-beta-naltrexol in suppressing alcohol consumption.
- To determine if 6-beta-naltrexol is an active metabolite contributing to naltrexone's effects.
Main Methods:
- Outbred Wistar rats were administered placebo and varying doses of 6-beta-naltrexol via intraperitoneal injection.
- Alcohol consumption was measured using a limited access model with a 6% ethanol solution.
Main Results:
- 6-beta-naltrexol demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in alcohol intake.
- Significant decreases in ethanol consumption were observed at doses of 7.5, 12.5, and 25 mg/kg compared to saline controls.
Conclusions:
- 6-beta-naltrexol exhibits alcohol consumption-suppressing properties in rats.
- These findings indicate a potential therapeutic application for 6-beta-naltrexol in the management of alcohol dependence.