Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

A Method for Evaluating the Reinforcing Properties of Ethanol in Rats without Water Deprivation, Saccharin Fading or Extended Access Training
Published on: January 29, 2017
Naltrexone in patients with bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence
E Sherwood Brown1, Laura Beard, Lauren Dobbs
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA. sherwood.brown@utsouthwestern.edu
Abstract:
Bipolar disorder is associated with very high rates of substance abuse. However, few clinical trials are reported in this population. Naltrexone is effective for alcohol dependence, but its safety and efficacy are not established in patients with bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence. A 16-week, open-label, add-on pilot study of naltrexone was conducted in 34 outpatients with bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence. Assessments included the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD-17), Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), and an alcohol craving scale. Alcohol use was quantified. Significant improvement was observed in the HRSD-17 and YMRS, and days of alcohol use and craving decreased significantly. Naltrexone was well tolerated. Controlled trials are warranted.
Related Concept Videos
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Drug Dependence
Antidepressant Drugs: MAOIs and Other Agents
Depressants
Alcohol is a common depressant that can induce a sense of relaxation and reduced inhibition at low doses. Contrary to its occasional...
Psychosis: Goals of Pharmacotherapy
Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
