This is a study involving treatment for alcohol dependence among males of European or Asian decent. The ultimate aim of this line of investigation is to further establish a genetic link between alcohol dependence and treatment by defining an endophenotype associated with treatment response. The study will combine two inpatient alcohol challenge sessions along with 12 weeks of outpatient treatment using random assignment to either naltrexone or placebo.
Name: naltrexone
Description: phase 1: 30 or 50 mg of naltrexone prior to challenge session; phase 2: 50mg/day for 12 weeksType: DrugP1A P2A
Name: placebo
Description: placebo pillsType: DrugP1B P2B
Name: alcohol
Description: 190 proof alcohol prepared to 11% volume mixed with fruit juiceType: OtherP1A P1B
Allocation: Randomized
Parallel Assignment
There are 2 SNPs
Recent work at our center provides evidence that the mu-opioid receptor (OPRM1) gene polymorphism A118G (Asn40Asp) imparts a significant change in treatment response. --- A118G ---
To further consolidate our knowledge, we wish to test the relationship between A118G polymorphism and the subjective/objective measures to alcohol among alcoholics treated with naltrexone. --- A118G ---
This work is focused on subjects of European or Asian decent as the A118G polymorphism occurs in less than 1% of those of African decent. --- A118G ---
Recent work at our center provides evidence that the mu-opioid receptor (OPRM1) gene polymorphism A118G (Asn40Asp) imparts a significant change in treatment response. --- A118G --- --- Asn40Asp ---