Effectiveness of Tiagabine for Cocaine Dependence in Methadone-Maintained Individuals - 1

For over 30 years, methadone has been used to treat opioid addiction. Since methadone is effective in reducing withdrawal symptoms, it is used as a method of detoxification for opiate addicts. However, methadone is not effective in treating other drugs of abuse, such as cocaine. Tiagabine is a drug that enhances levels of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical found in the brain and spinal cord. The objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of tiagabine in modifying cocaine-using behavior and reducing opiate withdrawal symptoms among newly admitted methadone-treated patients.

This 16-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial will involve 120 participants who are both cocaine- and opioid- dependent. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either tiagabine or placebo, while concurrently receiving methadone treatment. Baseline cocaine use will be determined during the first two weeks of treatment. The study will include three overlapping phases. The first phase will include a one-week fixed methadone induction (Week 1), as well as flexible methadone stabilization (Weeks 2-13). Phase two will consist of a 12-week treatment period (Weeks 2-13). This will consist of tiagabine induction and stabilization. Phase three will include a 4-week taper, detoxification, or transfer period (Weeks 14-17). After completion of treatment, a 3-month follow-up visit will occur.

Inclusion criteria

• Currently not enrolled in methadone-maintenance treatment
• Demonstration of current opioid dependence as determined by the study physician, a self-reported history of opioid dependence for one year, and a positive urine test for opiates
• Current cocaine abuser with self-reported use of cocaine at least 1 time each week within the month prior to study entry, positive urine screen for cocaine, and score greater than 3 on the Severity Dependence Scale
• Women of childbearing age are eligible under the following conditions: negative pregnancy test at initial screening, adequate contraceptive use throughout the study, monthly pregnancy tests, and acknowledgement of fetal toxicity risks due to medication

Exclusion criteria

• Current diagnosis of other drug or alcohol dependence (other than opiates, cocaine, or tobacco)
• Serious medical illness (e.g., major heart, kidney, endocrine, or liver disease, or serious neurological disorders, including history of seizures)
• Current diagnosis of a serious psychiatric illness or history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or bipolar type I disorder
• Suicidal or homicidal thoughts
• Currently taking psychotropic medications
• Women who are pregnant, nursing, refuse to use a reliable form of contraception, or refuse monthly pregnancy testing
• Greater than 3 times the normal level in liver screening function test (SGOT or SGPT)