Methylphenidate Treatment and Rearing Environment: Effects on the Dopamine System and Vulnerability to Substance Abuse in Animal Models
Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Abstract: 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.
Author: Gill, Kathryn E.
Language: English
Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2286078698