Navigation: African Psychedelic Plant Medicine for Treating Addiction and Depression, What is Ibogaine: Scientists Find New Potential Treatments for Addiction and Depression, What Causes Addiction and Depression?, How to Help Someone Who is Struggling with Addiction or Depression?, How is Addiction Usually Treated?, How Does Treatment for Depression Work?
Addiction and depression are both relatively common issues in the United States, with millions of people being affected by these two conditions.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2020, an estimated 20.3 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in the past year, representing 7.4% of the US population.
Meanwhile, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that in 2020, an estimated 19.4 million adults in the US had at least one major depressive episode in the past year, representing 7.8% of the US population.
Both of these medical conditions have a significant impact on an individual’s relationships, functioning, and quality of life.
Effective treatment for these conditions often involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both the addiction and the underlying mental health issues at the same time. Scientists are still working on brand new ways to treat those who are suffering from addiction and mental health disorders. In fact, scientists have recently found two new drug candidates that can potentially treat both addiction and depression.
Scientists based their new treatment on the pharmacology of ibogaine, which is a traditional African psychedelic plant medicine. Through this, they found two novel substances that were able to reduce the symptoms of both disorders in mice even at modest doses. With further research, this may help with potentially treating addiction and depression in humans as well.
Here we are going to discuss ibogaine, as well as the new molecules scientists found that could revolutionize treatment for addiction and depression. Let’s take a closer look.
African Psychedelic Plant Medicine for Treating Addiction and Depression
Ibogaine is a psychoactive alkaloid derived from the root bark of the Tabernanthe iboga plant, which is native to West Africa. It has been traditionally used by the Bwiti people for spiritual purposes and healing ceremonies.
Psychedelic plant medicines have been used for centuries by indigenous cultures in Africa for healing and spiritual purposes. Two well-known African plants that have been studied for their potential therapeutic benefits are iboga and ayahuasca.
In recent years, ibogaine has gained attention for its potential therapeutic effects in treating addiction, particularly for opioids and other substances. Some studies have suggested that ibogaine can alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and help individuals overcome addiction by facilitating psychological insight. It is thought to work by interrupting addictive patterns in the brain and providing a sense of clarity and introspection.
However, it’s important to note that ibogaine is still being studied. Scientists are still trying to determine how it can help treat addiction and mental health conditions like depression. On its own, ibogaine can be a powerful and potentially dangerous substance, and its use should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. It can have adverse effects and can even be fatal in some cases, especially when used improperly or in combination with other substances.
There is still much research to be done to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of these substances.
What is Ibogaine: Scientists Find New Potential Treatments for Addiction and Depression
A team of researchers from UCSF, Duke, and Yale universities sought to find precise molecules that suppressed the serotonin transporter (SERT), taking inspiration from ibogaine’s effect on SERT.
SERT is a protein responsible for the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. Suppressing SERT activity means reducing the ability of the protein to transport serotonin back into the cells that release it.
There are several ways to suppress SERT, such as by using medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are commonly used as antidepressants. By suppressing SERT, SSRI antidepressants increase the availability of serotonin in the brain, which is thought to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
From a scientific standpoint, SERT can adopt three conformations: outward-open, inward-open, and occluded. What makes ibogaine unique is that it stabilizes the inward-open conformation, unlike other inhibitors that target the outward-open state. Additionally, ibogaine has antidepressant effects.
The team of researchers digitally screened 200 million virtual chemical structures to find molecules that can suppress SERT the same way ibogaine does.
While ibogaine is known for addiction treatment, it is not a very good drug overall. Ibogaine on its own can produce adverse side effects. But by replicating its most desirable effects on behavior, scientists can potentially produce compounds that can help treat addiction and depression.
These newly discovered compounds mimic just one of ibogaine’s many pharmacological effects in mice.
There are several scientists who worked on this new discovery to demonstrate the real-world potential of these novel molecules, including Isha Singh, Ph.D. and Brian Shoichet, Ph.D.
Singh, who is the co-first author of the paper, said: “This kind of project begins with visualizing what kinds of molecules will fit into a protein, docking the library, optimizing, and then relying on a team to show the molecules work. Now we know there’s a lot of untapped therapeutic potential in targeting SERT.”
Singh did this study as a postdoc in Shoichet’s laboratory.
Shoichet, who is the co-senior author and professor at the UCSF School of Pharmacy, said, “Ibogaine binds to hERG, which can cause heart arrhythmias, and from a scientific standpoint, it’s a ‘dirty’ drug, binding to lots of targets beyond SERT. Before this experiment, we didn’t even know if the benefits of ibogaine came from its binding to SERT.”
This study was the first time a transporter was used in a docking experiment by the Shoichet lab, instead of a receptor. Only 49 molecules from the 200 million molecular structures in the virtual library could be synthesized after one docking round. After testing these molecules, the scientists found 13 molecules that could block SERT.
After a virtual reality-guided “docking party”, the two most potent SERT inhibitors went through rigorous testing on animal models for addiction, anxiety, and depression.
One of the two drugs, called the ‘8090, could block SERT at the atomic level. The best part is that these molecules had no negative side effects on other receptors and transporters. This can potentially impact the treatment for addiction and depression as scientists predict a better therapeutic window without side effects.
What Causes Addiction and Depression?
The causes of addiction and depression can be complex and multi-faceted, and can vary from person to person. However, there are some common factors that can contribute to the development of these conditions.
Addiction is often linked to changes in brain chemistry and the reward system. Certain substances, such as drugs or alcohol, can activate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain can become dependent on these substances to release dopamine, which can lead to addiction.
There are also psychological and environmental factors that can contribute to addiction. For example, people who have experienced trauma or have a history of mental illness may be more vulnerable to addiction. Social and environmental factors, such as peer pressure or access to drugs or alcohol, can also play a role.
Depression, on the other hand, is a mood disorder that is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Like addiction, depression can have a number of different causes.
One common factor is a chemical imbalance in the brain. Specifically, depression is often associated with low levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Additionally, genetic factors can play a role in the development of depression, as can environmental factors such as stress, trauma, or chronic illness.
It’s also worth noting that addiction and depression can often co-occur. Research suggests that there is a strong link between addiction and depression, with each condition potentially influencing and exacerbating the other. This is sometimes referred to as a dual diagnosis, and it can make treatment more complex.
People who struggle with addiction are more likely to experience depression, and people with depression are more likely to develop an addiction. For example, a person with depression may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate and alleviate their symptoms, while someone struggling with addiction may become depressed as a result of the negative consequences of their substance use.
Additionally, the brain chemistry changes that occur with addiction can also contribute to the development of depression. The repeated use of drugs or alcohol can alter the brain’s reward system, leading to a decrease in the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, all of which are common symptoms of depression.
With the right support and treatment, it is possible to overcome both addiction and depression.
How to Help Someone Who is Struggling with Addiction or Depression?
It’s hard to deal with an addiction or depression. But unfortunately, these conditions affect more than just the individual. These medical conditions can also impact the people around them.
Therefore it is easy to see how challenging it is to have a loved one who is struggling with either condition. You might feel like you are walking on eggshells around them because you do not know how to navigate their situation.
But there are proper ways to help someone with an addiction or mental health disorder. Here are some general guidelines that can be helpful:
Encourage them to seek professional help: Addiction and depression are serious mental health conditions that require proper diagnosis and treatment. Encourage the person to seek professional help from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a therapist, psychiatrist, or addiction specialist.
Offer emotional support: People with addiction or depression often feel isolated and alone. Show your support by listening to them without judgment, offering words of encouragement, and reminding them that they are not alone.
Learn about their condition: Educate yourself about addiction and depression to better understand what the person is going through. This can help you offer more informed support and be more empathetic towards their struggles.
Help them create a healthy routine: People with addiction or depression often struggle with maintaining a healthy routine. Encourage the person to engage in healthy habits such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep.
Avoid enabling behaviors: While it’s important to offer support, it’s also essential to avoid enabling behaviors that can perpetuate their addiction or depression. This includes avoiding giving them money or providing them with access to drugs or alcohol.
Be patient: Recovery from addiction and depression is a long process that requires time and effort. Be patient and understanding, and don’t give up on the person even if they relapse or have setbacks.
Remember that addiction and depression are complex conditions that require professional help. While your support can be helpful, it’s essential to encourage the person to seek professional help for the best possible outcome.
How is Addiction Usually Treated?
Addiction can be treated through a combination of approaches, which may include medication, therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual’s needs and the type of addiction they are struggling with.
Medication-Assisted Treatment or MAT involves the use of medications to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with addiction. This approach is often used for opioid and alcohol addiction.
This treatment is commonly supported by behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). These treatments can help patients identify triggers for their addictive behavior. Therapists and counselors will help them develop coping strategies to manage cravings and prevent relapse.
Of course, the recovery process does not end after leaving rehab. Sobriety is a long-term goal. This means the recovering individual needs continuing support even years after getting sober again. This will help them stay on the right track even when life presents its challenges. Rehab’s long-term goal is to teach patients how to manage their sobriety and avoid relapse.
Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a supportive community for individuals in recovery.
Making lifestyle changes such as engaging in regular exercise, improving nutrition, and developing healthy sleep habits can also be beneficial for individuals in recovery.
It’s important to note that addiction is a chronic disease, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. The most effective treatment plans are tailored to each individual’s needs and may involve a combination of these approaches.
How Does Treatment for Depression Work?
Similarly, the treatment for depression can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms, the duration of the condition, and the individual’s preferences. However, there are several common treatment options that have been found to be effective in managing depression.
Psychotherapy: Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy involves working with a mental health professional to explore and address the underlying causes of depression, as well as learning coping skills to manage symptoms. Some common forms of psychotherapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy.
Medication: Antidepressant medication can help alleviate the symptoms of depression by balancing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. The most commonly prescribed antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It is important to note that medication may not work for everyone, and it can take several weeks to see results.
Lifestyle changes: Making changes to one’s lifestyle can also be helpful in managing depression. This can include engaging in regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and practicing stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness meditation.
Just like addiction, depression is a complicated condition. What works for one person may not work for another. A combination of different treatments may be necessary to manage symptoms effectively.
Seek help from a mental health professional if you are experiencing symptoms of depression. They can provide guidance on the best course of treatment for your individual needs. Look for a rehab center near you today and learn more about your treatment options for your addiction or depression.
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