A preliminary trial: double-blind comparison of nefazodone, bupropion-SR, and placebo in the treatment of cannabis dependence.
Author(s): Carpenter KM, McDowell D, Brooks DJ, Cheng WY, Levin FR
Affiliation(s): Division on Substance Abuse, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA.
Publication date & source: 2009-01, Am J Addict., 18(1):53-64.
Publication type: Randomized Controlled Trial; Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
The present study investigated the efficacy of nefazodone and bupropion-sustained release for treating cannabis dependence. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, piggy back design was employed to assess if nefazodone and bupropion-sustained release increased the probability of abstinence from cannabis and reduced the severity of cannabis dependence and cannabis withdrawal symptoms during a 13-week outpatient treatment program. One-hundred and six participants (Mean = 32 years; females n = 25) were randomized to one of three medication conditions (nefazodone, bupropion-sustained release, or placebo) and participated in a weekly, individually based coping skills therapy program. Results indicated an increased probability of achieving abstinence over the course of treatment and a decrease in the severity of cannabis dependence and the withdrawal symptom of irritability. There were no significant effects demonstrated for nefazodone and bupropion-sustained release on cannabis use or cannabis withdrawal symptoms. The results indicate nefazodone and bupropion-sustained release may have limited efficacy in treating cannabis dependence.
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