University of Utah Department of Human Genetics The New Science of Addiction Louisa A. Stark, Ph.D....
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Transcript of University of Utah Department of Human Genetics The New Science of Addiction Louisa A. Stark, Ph.D....
University of UtahDepartment of Human Genetics
The New Science of AddictionLouisa A. Stark,
Ph.D. Director
http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/units/addiction/index.cfm
• Natural reward pathways exist in the brain
• Drugs of abuse alter the brain’s natural reward pathways
• Genetics is a factor in addiction
• Timing and circumstances influence addiction
• Addiction is a treatable disease
Key points
Components of effective treatment
• Treatment medications– Treat withdrawal symptoms– Help the brain adapt to the absence of the
drug– Prevent relapse by interfering with triggers
http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/units/addiction/issues/treatments.cfm
Components of effective treatment
• Behavioral therapies– Cognitive behavioral therapy– Motivational incentives– Motivational interviewing– Group therapy
http://www.drugabuse.gov/scienceofaddiction/treatment.html
• Natural reward pathways exist in the brain
• Drugs of abuse alter the brain’s natural reward pathways
• Genetics is a factor in addiction
• Timing and circumstances influence addiction
• Addiction is a treatable disease
Key points