university of utah department of human genetics the new science of addiction louisa a. stark, ph.d....
Post on 18-Dec-2015
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University of UtahDepartment of Human Genetics
The New Science of AddictionLouisa A. Stark,
Ph.D. Director
http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/units/addiction/index.cfm
• Natural reward pathways exist in the brain
• Drugs of abuse alter the brain’s natural reward pathways
• Genetics is a factor in addiction
• Timing and circumstances influence addiction
• Addiction is a treatable disease
Key points
Components of effective treatment
• Treatment medications– Treat withdrawal symptoms– Help the brain adapt to the absence of the
drug– Prevent relapse by interfering with triggers
http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/units/addiction/issues/treatments.cfm
Components of effective treatment
• Behavioral therapies– Cognitive behavioral therapy– Motivational incentives– Motivational interviewing– Group therapy
http://www.drugabuse.gov/scienceofaddiction/treatment.html
• Natural reward pathways exist in the brain
• Drugs of abuse alter the brain’s natural reward pathways
• Genetics is a factor in addiction
• Timing and circumstances influence addiction
• Addiction is a treatable disease
Key points