Influence of Orexin Antagonism on Motivation for Alcohol
William Stoops
Summary
This research will translate findings from preclinical research and provide the initial clinical evidence that orexin antagonism reduces motivation for alcohol, as well as other alcohol-associated maladaptive behaviors in people with Alcohol Use Disorder. This study will also provide basic science information about the orexinergic mechanisms underlying the pharmacodynamic effects of alcohol in humans. As such, the outcomes will contribute to our understanding of the clinical neurobiology of Alcohol Use Disorder. Overall, the proposed work seeks to expand the scope of current clinical neuroscience research on alcohol addiction by focusing on orexin, which has strong preclinical evidence supporting its critical role in addiction but remains unstudied in humans.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 21–55 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria: 1. Able to speak and read English. 2. Not seeking treatment at the time of the study. 3. Between the ages of 21 and 55 years. 4. Engaging in at least one binge drinking episode, per the NIAAA definition, in the last 30 days. 5. Fulfillment of moderate or severe DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for AUD based on computerized SCID results reviewed by a psychiatrist or psychologist. 6. ECG, read by cardiologist, within normal limits. 7. Body mass index of 19 - 35. 8. Birthing individuals using an effective form of birth control and not pregnant or breast feeding. 9. Judged…
Interventions
- DrugAlcohol
The pharmacodynamic effects of alcohol (0.2 and 0.4 g/kg) will be determined.
- DrugPlacebo
The effects of placebo will be determined.
- DrugSuvorexant
The effects of suvorexant dose 1 will be determined.
- DrugSuvorexant
The effects of suvorexant dose 2 will be determined.
Location
- Psychopharmacology of Addiction LaboratoryLexington, Kentucky