Popular drugs such as Valium are as addictive as heroin says a new study. Researchers from Switzerland and the U.S found benzodiazepine drugs, also known as benzo’s, such as Valium, Xanax, Librium, Ambien and other well-known drugs stimulate the dopamine system, but scientists are just now discovering how they accomplish this.
These prescribed drugs offer a calming effect by boosting the actions of neurotransmitters. Because of this calming effect it activates the gratification hormone, dopamine and is the same reward pathway activated by some illegal drugs such as heroin. The findings may help in developing a next generation of non-addictive benzodiazepines.
The study which was conducted on mice attempts to increases our knowledge about the neurological basis for addictive behavior. The study found that benzodiazepines seemed to work by binding to a particular part of the neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid. (GABA)
Dr Arthur Riegel and Professor Peter Kalivas of the University of South Carolina described the discovery as “a landmark for the field” and said the research has highlighted an exciting possibility.
Dr Christian Luscher of the University of Geneva said: “Our work unravels the molecular basis of the defining pharmacological features that benzodiazepines share with addictive drugs, which we believe will be key for designing new BDZs with lower addiction liability.”
Benzodiazepines are among the most commonly prescribed depressant medications in the United States today. More than 15 different types of benzodiazepine medications exist to treat a wide array of both psychological and physical maladies
The researchers are hopeful these findings may help in the development of next generation non-addictive benzodiazepines. Meanwhile treatments centers throughout the country are now treating people for benzodiazepine addictions.
These prescribed drugs offer a calming effect by boosting the actions of neurotransmitters. Because of this calming effect it activates the gratification hormone, dopamine and is the same reward pathway activated by some illegal drugs such as heroin. The findings may help in developing a next generation of non-addictive benzodiazepines.
Dr Arthur Riegel and Professor Peter Kalivas of the University of South Carolina described the discovery as “a landmark for the field” and said the research has highlighted an exciting possibility.
Dr Christian Luscher of the University of Geneva said: “Our work unravels the molecular basis of the defining pharmacological features that benzodiazepines share with addictive drugs, which we believe will be key for designing new BDZs with lower addiction liability.”
Benzodiazepines are among the most commonly prescribed depressant medications in the United States today. More than 15 different types of benzodiazepine medications exist to treat a wide array of both psychological and physical maladies
The researchers are hopeful these findings may help in the development of next generation non-addictive benzodiazepines. Meanwhile treatments centers throughout the country are now treating people for benzodiazepine addictions.
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