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Review
. 2008 Oct 12;363(1507):3277-86.
doi: 10.1098/rstb.2008.0105.

Review. Evidence-based treatments of addiction

Charles P O'Brien  1
Affiliations
Review

Review. Evidence-based treatments of addiction

Charles P O'Brien. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. .

Abstract

Both pharmacotherapy and behavioural treatment are required to relieve the symptoms of addictive disorders. This paper reviews the evidence for the benefits of pharmacotherapy and discusses mechanisms where possible. Animal models of addiction have led to some medications that are effective in reducing symptoms and improving function but they do not produce a cure. Addiction is a chronic disease that tends to recur when treatment is stopped; thus, long-term treatment is recommended.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Addiction: resultant of interacting variables. Each class of variables can increase or decrease the risk of addiction. For example, high drug availability and low price (agent) would increase the risk, but genetic factors (host) or opportunities for other pleasures in life (environment) could offset the increased risk. Treatment approaches must also address all of these variables.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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