Cocaine addiction is particularly challenging, due to the high relapse rate after one has stopped using the drug. However, there is no research that shows that changes in the DNA taking place during withdrawal could be responsible for potential future developments of treatments that are more effective. So why does someone experience a cocaine relapse? When someone is in withdrawal, genes that have to do with addictive personality will be reprogrammed in the brain.
Although we get our genes from our ancestors and they cannot be changed per se, there are epigenetic marks that can affect the expression of these genes, DNA methylation being one of them. Drugs exist that can inhibit the DNA methylation process and remove the marks from the genes, thus altering gene expression.
Researchers decided to explore the possibility of stopping addictive behavior by having an impact on epigenetic markers that could be triggered by the withdrawal process, using RG108, a DNA methylation inhibitor drug.
Can A Cocaine Relapse be Avoided With an Inhibitor Drug?
The research team explored this idea using rats. They trained the rats to administer cocaine to themselves, eventually leading to addiction. The behavior demonstrating cravings for cocaine was tested after one day and 30 days of withdrawal. Following the 30-day withdrawal, the rats exhibited intense behavior when exposed to cocaine.
After the longer withdrawal period, injecting the RG108 drug right before the animals were exposed to the stimulus that would have made them crave the drug stopped the addictive behavior. The absence of addictive behavior lasted for a longer time as well. The research team observed that the most significant changes in the DNA methylation process took place during withdrawal rather than during exposure to cocaine. There were hundreds of genes that change their status in terms of DNA methylation during this time.
This research may very well revolutionize current treatments of addiction in human beings, including what takes place during the typical cocaine rehab program. It’s actually quite possible that the current mainstream treatments are counterproductive rather than helpful in fighting addiction.
The cocaine rehab program of today may be very different than the one of the future, according to research findings. Since changes in the addiction process involve multiple genes, the current approaches don’t take enough into account to address all facets of the problem. Of course, more research will need to be done in order to see if potential new treatments could in fact be effective in cocaine rehab programs.
Regardless of the current state of cocaine rehab programs, recovery stands the best choice of success if you seek treatment at a professional drug rehab. Addiction doesn’t cure itself. Find help today.