[NMDA-receptor antagonists: new pharmacological agents to control the subjective and motivational effects of...

The effects of N-methyl-D-aspartate. (NMDA) receptor antagonists on the development of long-term adaptation to abused drugs (tolerance, sensitization, dependence) were studied, NMDA receptor antagonists were shown to suppress subjective (including an aversion-motivation component) signs of the opiate withdrawal syndrome and to diminish the secondary reinforcing effects of morphine, cocaine, and electrical brain stimulation rewards of the brain regions. The results obtained indicate the potential efficiency of this new class of pharmacological agents in the context of treatment and prevention of recurrent drug abuse.