Researchers in the department of Psychiatry at Penn Medicine conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial and found that the drug topiramate may help people addicted to both cocaine and alcohol. Because cocaine and alcohol addictions often go hand in hand, therapies that target both may be the best method for treatment. 170 alcohol and cocaine dependent people were tested in the 13-week clinical trial. The results showed that people with more severe cocaine withdrawal symptoms seemed to benefit the most from the drug. The drug also reduced alcohol cravings, but did not reduce drinking.
Topiramate is believed to reduce the dopamine release associated with cocaine and alcohol use, reducing the drugs’ euphoric effects.
“This study further supports topiramate as a promising medication for people who are both alcohol and cocaine dependent,” said Dr. Kampman. “Future studies are planned in which topiramate will be combined with other promising medications for the treatment of cocaine dependence in the hope of achieving even higher levels of cocaine abstinence than were achieved with topiramate alone.”
Topiramate is commonly used alone or with other medications to prevent and control seizures, prevent migraine headaches and decrease how often you get them, and aid in weight loss. Some side effects of topiramate include tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, loss of coordination, tingling of the hand/feet, loss of appetite, bad taste in mouth, diarrhea, and weight loss. Topiramate may also decrease your ability to sweat, making you more likely to get heatstroke. Those who use topiramate are advised to avoid activities that may cause them to overheat.
For more information about the Penn Medicine Study, click here for the Penn Medicine News Release.
Information about topiramate is from WebMD.