ADDICTION: NEW ERA OF THERAPY

Document Type : Original Article

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Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Drug abuse and addiction represents a major burden to the society. According to
National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) the economic costs alone are estimated to exceed half a
trillion dollars annually in the United States, including health, losses in productivity, and crime
related costs. In Egypt, the 2013 survey of substance use and addiction revealed an increased
prevalence when compared to 1996 survey. Untreated substance abuse and addiction adds a
significant avoidable costs and major disruptions to the families and communities. However,
scientists are now poised to capitalize on recent advances in genetics, neuroscience and
developmental biology to create breakthrough treatments that could revolutionize care and reduce
associated public health and safety problems. These treatments will help addicts stop abusing drugs
and resume their productive lives.
Aim: The aim is to provide review of recent literature on the new methods for treatment of
addiction, including opiate, cocaine, nicotine; their advantages and disadvantages. Also to highlight
areas for researchers interested in this field to build upon their studies.
Conclusion: Several new recent lines for treating addiction have been developed including
nanotechnology approach, brain stimulation methods, yoga and mindfulness practice, vaccines
against drugs of abuse, N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor modulators, acupuncture and hypnotherapy.

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