OHSU working on drug that takes the pleasure out of drinking alcohol

By Susan Harding and KATU Web Staff Published: Aug 1, 2008 at 8:46 PM PST Last Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 11:05 PM PST
OHSU working on drug that takes the pleasure out of drinking alcohol »Play Video

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Health & Sciences University is developing a drug that could take the buzz out of drinking alcohol, raising the question of whether alcoholism could be cured with a simple pill.

The drug is known as CP 154-526 and according to lead researcher Tamara Phillips, it works by blocking receptors in the brain. And by blocking the pleasure from drinking, the drug may help alcoholics who want to stop, yet can't resist the craving.

The drug is effective even in mice that drink large amounts of alcohol and Dr. Phillips believes it will do the same for people.  Clinical trials on humans are getting under way.

Researchers say the drug may also help with addiction to cocaine and meth, and may even work to treat depression and anxiety.