A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessing the efficacy of varenicline tartrate for alcohol dependence.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of varenicline (Chantix) for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Varenicline is a partial α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine agonist approved by the Food and Drug Administration for smoking cessation. It has reduced drinking in animal studies and in small studies of humans who were both heavy drinkers and smokers. This is the first multisite clinical trial of varenicline in a population of smokers and nonsmokers with alcohol dependence.

Methods

Men and women (n = 200) meeting the criteria for alcohol dependence were recruited across 5 clinical sites. Patients received double-blind varenicline or placebo and a computerized behavioral intervention. Varenicline was titrated during the first week to 2 mg/d, which was maintained during week

SUBMITTER: Litten RZ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3914416 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jul-Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature