Projects
Opiate: The role of drug cues in reward and inhibitory processes in opiate addiction: A functional brain imaging and psychophysiological investigation.
Drug addiction is a major public health issue, characterized by intense cravings and compulsive drug-taking. This apparent loss of control over drug intake, even in the face of adverse consequences (e.g. health, relationship, financial, legal etc), suggests that some addicts have problems making decision such that they are unable to inhibit the strong urges associated with exposure to drugs and related paraphernalia. Previous experience has shown that indeed some individuals with addictive problems do have decision-making difficulties.
In this project we will use brain imaging and neurophysiological techniques, as well as tests of cognition (thinking) to assess the relationship between the brain’s processing of drug cues and the integrity of the brain’s inhibitory system (i.e. your mental brakes) in opiate addiction. The project findings will provide a clearer understanding of the role of cues and inhibitory processes in the decision making of addicted individuals, allowing for the development of more targeted treatment strategies.
Investigators
A/Prof Murat Yucel, Dr Dan Lubman, A/Prof Nick Allen, Prof Christos Pantelis, Dr Ian Kronborg, A/Prof Stephen Wood, Dr David Abbott, Dr Ross Cunnington
Ethics
Melbourne Health: MHREC 2004.07
Project Title: The role of drug cues in reward and inhibitory processes in opiate addiction: A functional brain imaging and psychophysiological investigation.
Investigator: Yucel, M