METHYLPHENIDATE TREATMENT AND REARING ENVIRONMENT: EFFECTS ON THE DOPAMINE SYSTEM AND VULNERABILITY TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN ANIMAL MODELS

The purpose of these studies was to investigate the effects of chronic methylphenidate treatment, at doses that have been associated with clinical efficacy in children, on the dopamine system and vulnerability to substance abuse in animal models. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed stimulant to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. As a dopaminergic agent, it has potential to cause long-term alterations of a neural system that has been associated with numerous psychopathologies, including substance abuse. Yet, few studies have examined its long term effects on the brain. Another factor that can influence vulnerability to substance abuse is early rearing environment, as children raised in negative environments are more likely to develop substance abuse disorders. These studies examined the interaction of environment and methylphenidate on the dopamine system and vulnerability to cocaine and alcohol abuse.

Grantor dc:publisher

Wake Forest University

Year dc:date.issued

2013

Author dc:creator

• Gill, Kathryn E.

• alcohol

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/10339/39140

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:wakespace.lib.wfu.edu:10339/39140