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Current pharmacotherapy for gambling disorder: a systematic review
Shane W Kraus1, Repairer Etuk1, Marc N Potenza2,3,4,5,6
1Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA.
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
|January 14, 2020
Summary
Opioid antagonists like naltrexone show promise for treating gambling disorder, an addictive disorder. Combining pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy may improve patient retention, but more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Addictive Disorders
- Pharmacotherapy
Background:
- Gambling disorder is a significant addictive disorder causing distress and functional impairment.
- Currently, no pharmacotherapy is formally indicated for gambling disorder.
- Emerging data suggest potential benefits of specific medications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on pharmacotherapies for gambling disorder.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of medications in treating gambling disorder.
- To identify gaps and future directions in pharmacotherapy research for gambling disorder.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 19 randomized controlled trials.
- Focus on pharmacotherapies tested for gambling disorder treatment.
- Analysis of study findings regarding medication efficacy and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Limited RCTs exist for gambling disorder pharmacotherapy.
- Opioid antagonists, such as naltrexone, demonstrated potential benefits.
- Combined pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy may enhance patient retention compared to monotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacotherapy, particularly with opioid antagonists, shows promise for gambling disorder.
- Combination treatments may improve treatment adherence.
- Further research is essential, especially for diverse populations and dually diagnosed patients.
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