Diazepam reinforcement in anxious patients

John D. Roache, Melinda A. Stanley, Daniel L. Creson, Richard A. Meisch, Nurun N. Shah

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

The reinforcing effects of diazepam were examined in 4 female patients with generalized anxiety disorder but without histories of drug abuse. Under double-blind conditions, patients were given medication capsules containing either 4 mg diazepam or placebo that they could use 'as needed' for anxiety. After a 1-week sampling period for each medication, participants repeatedly chose which medication they preferred over the next 4 weeks. Reinforcing effects of diazepam were demonstrated in 3 participants who showed exclusive diazepam preference. The results suggest procedures whereby drug self-medication behavior may be studied in an outpatient environment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)308-314
Number of pages7
JournalExperimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology
Volume4
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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