Possible cure for marijuana addiction developed

Scientists have developed a treatment that could help to cure people of addiction to marijuana. The new treatment uses the naturally occurring kynurenic acid in the brain to create a drug that inhibits the effects of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.

Researchers have discovered that if levels of kynurenic acid are increased in monkeys and rats, the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are reduced. THC causes a temporary increase in dopamine levels, which provides the positive emotional response when marijuana is taken.

Kynurenic acid can easily be produced and is thought to have fewer negative side effects than current treatments for marijuana addiction.

The research has so far only studied rats and monkeys; however, studies have shown that when the levels of kynurenic acid are increased, rats and monkeys no longer crave THC.

“We found that you can reduce dopamine levels and the animals behave differently – they don’t have relapse, and don’t abuse marijuana,” Dr Schwarcz told science news website LiveScience.

Similar conclusions have been drawn from treatments for alcohol abuse in the past. Switching off the neurotransmitters that cause the emotional response results in people becoming less interested in drinking alcohol. Even those who are addicted are driven by the emotional response; it is rarely a problem of habit.

Dr Schwarcz concluded: “A medication that would safely and effectively assist in the treatment of marijuana dependence would be an important step forward in dealing with cannabis-use disorders.”

Despite the fact that cannabis addiction is still a major problem, there are still no treatments available. It is hoped that human trials will lead to a safe and effective treatment for marijuana addiction.