Effects of methylphenidate on resting-state functional connectivity of the mesocorticolimbic dopamine pathways in cocaine addiction.

ABSTRACT:

Importance

Cocaine addiction is associated with altered resting-state functional connectivity among regions of the mesocorticolimbic dopamine pathways. Methylphenidate hydrochloride, an indirect dopamine agonist, normalizes task-related regional brain activity and associated behavior in cocaine users; however, the neural systems-level effects of methylphenidate in this population have not yet been described.

Objective

To use resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine changes in mesocorticolimbic connectivity with methylphenidate and how connectivity of affected pathways relates to severity of cocaine addiction.

Design

Randomized, placebo-controlled, before-after, crossover study.

Setting

Clinical research center.

Participants

Eighteen

SUBMITTER: Konova AB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4358734 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature