Altered dynorphin opioid peptide systems contribute to increased ethanol self-administration during withdrawal following chronic alcohol exposure.
We previously identified that the κ-opioid receptor antagonist nor-binaltorphimine (nor-BNI) selectively reduced ethanol self-administration in dependent animals.
The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) determine whether peripherally administered nor-BNI could reduce dependence-induced ethanol self-administration and (2) confirm the selective κ-opioid effects of nor-BNI by administering it 24 hours prior to ethanol self-administration sessions occurring during acute withdrawal.
Nor-BNI decreased ethanol self-administration in ethanol-dependent animals, with no effect in nondependent animals.
Thus, the κ-opioid/dynorphin system is a viable pharmacotherapeutic target for the treatment of alcoholism.
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