beta-endorphin and Psychoses--Alcoholic

It has been demonstrated by a double blind placebo-controlled study that transcranial electric treatment (TET) by means of combination of direct current and pulse current and pulse current at a frequency of 70-80 Hz is an effective method of correcting affective disorders (anxiety, depressions) in patients suffering from alcoholism. The therapeutic effects of TET are coupled with changes in GABA and monoamine metabolism rather than in beta-endorphin as well as with a decrease of the latent period of the occurrence of alpha-rhythm after eyes closing.

Topics: Adult; Affective Disorders, Psychotic; Alcoholism; beta-Endorphin; Brain; Double-Blind Method; Electric Stimulation Therapy; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid; Humans; Middle Aged; Monoamine Oxidase; Psychoses, Alcoholic

Beta-endorphin (beta-EP) and beta-lipotropin (beta-LPH) plasma concentrations were examined in ten chronic alcohol abusers, eight men and two women aged 25-56 years with histories of continuously elevated ethanol consumption dating from 5-30 years. Plasma levels of the two peptides were measured after acute alcohol consumption and then after 3, 6 and 9 days of forced abstinence, during chlordiazepoxide treatment. Beta-EP and beta-LPH concentrations were normal on all four occasions. A reduced sensitivity of opioid receptors to acute alcohol administration due to chronic alcohol consumption is suggested.

Topics: Adult; Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium; Alcoholic Intoxication; Alcoholism; beta-Endorphin; beta-Lipotropin; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Naloxone; Psychoses, Alcoholic; Receptors, Opioid