Double Blind Placebo Control Opipramol-Baclofen Treatment for Addiction: Medical and Cognitive Effects

The aim of this study is examining the combination of two FDA approved drugs, Opipramol and baclofen, which may increase rehabilitation from psychoactive substances. Previous studies have indicated a connection of sigma-1 receptor to cocaine abuse and raised the possibility that these receptors as mediators of drug craving . However previous studies showed partial efficacy with no significant relapse in relapse rates. The same is true for the use of GABAb-1 receptor antagonist. Opipramol is a selective agonist for sigma-1 receptor. It is clinically used as an antidepressant and anxiolytic agent. Moreover, previous open and controlled trials indicated that the GABAb-1 antagonist baclofen partial efficacy in suppressing withdrawal symptoms in alcohol addicts and cocaine. Our studies in an animal model for addiction have shown a significant effect of the combine treatment of the indicated medications both in decreasing relapse and increase of -number of respondents.