Effects of carbamazepine on acute responses to smoked cocaine-base in human cocaine users.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study was conducted to determine the effects of carbamazepine on the acute physiological and subjective responses to a single dose of smoked cocaine-base. Male cocaine users (N = 6) were given 400 mg carbamazepine or placebo, each for a period of 5 days. At the end of the 5-day period, a 40 mg dose of smoked cocaine was administered. The results showed a significantly higher heart rate, diastolic blood pressure elevation, and blood pressure-heart rate product under the carbamazepine compared to the placebo condition. There were no effects of carbamazepine on the subjective responses from cocaine. The increase in cardiovascular functions indicates a need to be cautious in the use of carbamazepine in the treatment of cocaine abusers.
Hatsukami
D
D
Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455.
Keenan
R
R
Halikas
J
J
Pentel
P R
PR
Brauer
L H
LH
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000328:Adult; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D002220:Carbamazepine / Q000494:pharmacology*; D003042:Cocaine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006339:Heart Rate / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology
D002220:Carbamazepine; D003042:Cocaine