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Beyond Mor: Can Induction of Dopamine Homeostasis Along with Electrotherapy Attenuate the Opioid Crisis?
Kenneth Blum1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8, Abdalla Bowirrat1,8, Eric R Braverman3
1Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.
Abstract:
One important area for consideration especially in terms of combating the ongoing never ending opioid crisis, relates to novel newer assessments for all addictive behaviors both substance and non-substance behaviors (RDS). It is very important to identify early in one's life the possibility of, because of known DNA antecedents, the presence of pre-addiction. The development of the Genetic Addiction Risk Severity (GARS) test, Blum's group believes that this type of testing should be the "standard of care" following additional studies. Understandably that while polymorphisms in the Mu-Opioid receptor (MOR) is of real concern in terms of setting people up for predisposition to opioid dependence, the genetic and epigenetic status of dopaminergic function must be considered as well. While this sounds bold (which it is) the results should be protected by the G.I. N. A. law enacted in the USA in 2011. One avenue of further investigation, instead of providing powerful opioids for opioid dependence, is to seek out non-addictive alternatives. Accordingly, other non-addictive modalities including genetic guided KB220 (amino-acid-enkephalinase-N-acetylcysteine-NAD), non-invasive rTMS for psychiatry and pain, epigenetic remodeling, gene edits, non-invasive H-wave for pain management and enhanced functionality, brain spotting, cognitive behavioral therapy awarenesss integration therapy, NUCALM, trauma therapy, awareness tools, genograms, exercise, sports, fitness programs (one hour per day), light therapy and even laughing therapy as well as any other known modalities that can induce reward symmetry. While the short term use of opioids for opioid dependence to reduce harm is certainly acceptable, clinicians should consider a better long-term plan.
Insights
Identifying genetic predispositions to addiction early is crucial for the opioid crisis. The Genetic Addiction Risk Severity (GARS) test offers a potential standard of care for assessing addiction risk and guiding non-addictive treatments.
Area of Science:
- Addiction research
- Genetics and epigenetics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The opioid crisis necessitates novel assessment tools for substance and non-substance addictive behaviors.
- Early identification of pre-addiction through genetic testing is vital due to known DNA antecedents.
- Genetic and epigenetic factors, including Mu-Opioid receptor (MOR) polymorphisms and dopaminergic function, influence addiction predisposition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the Genetic Addiction Risk Severity (GARS) test as a potential "standard of care" for addiction risk assessment.
- To explore non-addictive alternatives for managing addiction and opioid dependence.
- To highlight the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors in addiction.
Main Methods:
- Development and proposed implementation of the Genetic Addiction Risk Severity (GARS) test.
- Review of genetic and epigenetic factors related to addiction.
- Identification and discussion of various non-addictive treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- The GARS test aims to identify individuals at risk for addiction early in life.
- Genetic and epigenetic factors play a significant role in predisposition to addiction.
- A wide range of non-addictive alternatives exist for addiction management.
Conclusions:
- The GARS test holds promise as a standard for addiction risk assessment, protected by GINA law.
- Further research into genetic and epigenetic influences on addiction is warranted.
- Clinicians should prioritize long-term, non-addictive strategies over short-term opioid use for opioid dependence.
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