Divalproex loading in the treatment of cocaine dependence.
The current pilot project was designed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of a loading dose of divalproex (DVPX) in subjects with cocaine dependence. Seventeen cocaine-dependent subjects were enrolled in an eight-week, open-label trial of 20 mg/kg/day DVPX. Subjects were seen weekly and urine drug screens were obtained at each visit. Over the eight-week trial, craving intensity and frequency as well as reported time using cocaine decreased significantly. Retention in the current study was 79% at week four and 50% at week eight. The medication and dosing strategy was well tolerated. This pilot study indicates that DVPX loading is well tolerated and may be efficacious in the treatment of cocaine dependence. A placebo-controlled trial would be of interest.
Myrick
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H
Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Substance Abuse Treatment Center, Charleston, South Carolina 29401, USA.
Henderson
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S
Brady
K T
KT
Malcom
R
R
Measom
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M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D019970:Cocaine-Related Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology / Q000652:urine; D005260:Female; D018682:GABA Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*
D018682:GABA Agents; D014635:Valproic Acid