Propensity to addiction starts with the very first drug use experience, a new study shows.
Consuming addictive substances often involves an unpleasant experience, like using a needle, ingesting a bitter substance or inhaling smoke. These distasteful experiences -- known as aversive cues -- and our initial reactions to them are pivotal to understanding who will become an addict, said University of Texas at El Paso biologist Travis Moschak, Ph.D.
Moschak explained that nearly 30 rats were given the opportunity to self-administer small doses of cocaine by poking their nose into a designated hole. Each dose of cocaine was preceded by a small, bitter-tasting dose of quinine, a substance that is safe for rats and commonly used to impart the bitter flavor in tonic water.
While previous studies have explored the relationship between aversive cues and drug use, Moschak's research is the first to study them as a paired experience from the very first instance of drug use, he said. "This is a fascinating study with great potential to help us better understand and address drug abuse in people," said Robert Kirken, Ph.D., dean of the College of Science."With further study, this research could lead to better ways to prevent and treat addiction."
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