Abstract
In the human central nervous system, the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptor complex undergoes changes with both acute and chronic exposure to sedative-hypnotic drugs. These changes contribute to both the acute effects of these drugs as well as the chronic effects of sedative-hypnotic dependence, withdrawal, and drug craving. Clinically these chronic effects are difficult to treat in patients dependent on ethanol or benzodiazepines. Valproate may return the GABA type A receptor function to a state more closely resembling its normal function. By this mechanism, it is possible to reduce the symptoms of sedative-hypnotic withdrawal and relapse.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 319-323 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Alcohol and Alcoholism |
Volume | 35 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2000 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Psychiatry and Mental health
- Medicine (miscellaneous)
- Toxicology