Neuromodulatory Treatments for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Review

Brain Sciences
Anne-Mary N SalibCasey H Halpern

Abstract

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a prevalent condition characterized by chronic alcohol-seeking behaviors and has become a significant economic burden with global ramifications on public health. While numerous treatment options are available for AUD, many are unable to sustain long-term sobriety. The nucleus accumbens (NAcc) upholds an integral role in mediating reward behavior and has been implicated as a potential target for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the context of AUD. DBS is empirically thought to disrupt pathological neuronal synchrony, a hallmark of binge behavior. Pre-clinical animal models and pilot human clinical studies utilizing DBS for the treatment of AUD have shown promise for reducing alcohol-related cravings and prolonging abstinence. In this review, we outline the various interventions available for AUD, and the translational potential DBS has to modulate functionality of the NAcc as a treatment for AUD.

Citations

Sep 17, 2020·Expert Review of Medical Devices·Beata Jarosiewicz, Martha Morrell
Dec 29, 2020·Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience·Tanuja Bordia, Natalie M Zahr

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