A new study on mice has shown that immune-modulating medicines may have the potential to affect neuroinflammatory markers in the brain, present in those who have methamphetamine use disorder.
The role of inflammation in meth addiction
In order to find appropriate medical interventions for meth addiction, researchers needed to learn more about how this substance impacts the brain. Studies show that meth causes spikes in dopamine and communication between proteins called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (or TNF-α). [1] These increases also feed on one another, as TNF-α is known to further increase dopamine release. [2]
Dopamine is a natural chemical called a neurotransmitter that produces feelings of pleasure, reward, and motivation. This bodily response occurs with many addictions, as that is what encourages someone to continue using a certain substance. [3]
The TNF-α protein, on the other hand, regulates both acute and chronic inflammation in the body. This means TNF-α plays a part in the body’s natural response to injuries and also prompts more problematic, long-term inflammation. [4] The first response is essential to our well-being and should be preserved, but long-term inflammation can lead to a host of health concerns.
Managing this inflammation
Since inflammation in the brain can have especially detrimental effects, researchers also set out to find a way to address this problem. Experts posit that medication may be helpful in preventively decreasing such inflammation and assisting with recovery from meth addiction.
In particular, researchers believe the best option is a CNS-penetrating drug that targets the central nervous system and dampens TNF-α signaling. This type of drug is also called an immunomodulator because it helps the body more effectively manage immune responses (such as inflammation).
By slowing communication between the proteins responsible for this response, this lowers inflammation within the brain. Because TNF-α increases dopamine, this is also expected to bring down levels of that neurotransmitter, which can assist in curbing cravings for meth.
Practice implications
While research to date has focused on mouse specimens, there is considerable promise for addiction treatment. It is possible that studies on individuals with meth addiction can be fast-tracked since CNS-penetrating drugs have already been formulated.
These medications are currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use with people who have autoimmune disorders, such as lupus and multiple sclerosis.
If the CNS-penetrating drugs are successful in the treatment of meth addiction, there is also potential to use these medications in the treatment of other substance use disorders, such as alcohol use disorder. [4] Regardless, the findings of this study will help pave the way for advancements in addiction treatment by deepending researcher’s knowledge of inflammation and addiction.
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