NCJ Number
119766
Journal
Bulletin on Narcotics Volume: 35 Issue: 1 Dated: (January-March 1983) Pages: 11-15
Date Published
1983
Length
5 pages
Annotation
An attempt was made to antagonize the effects of morphine by using L-aspartic acid based on results which suggested that free amino acids in the central nervous system (CNS) played an important role in the action mechanism of morphine.
Abstract
Eight males were treated. Two of these men were addicted to codeine, two to heroin, and four to opium tincture. Four times daily for up to five days they were given 2 grams L-aspartic acid administered orally. The men were withdrawn from the drugs on which they were physically dependent by gradually decreasing the amount of the abused drug. During the treatment some mild abstinence signs and symptoms were noted. The subjects all improved in their communications and showed increased politeness and tidiness. None of the treated persons showed any sign of the abstinence syndrome or expressed a feeling of need for the compulsive intake of the drug which had been abused at the end of the treatment period or during the subsequent two weeks. Treatment of opiate addicts with L-aspartic acid needs to be confirmed by further clinical trials. 11 references. (Author abstract modified)