Can the dopaminergic-related effects of general anesthetics be linked to mechanisms involved in drug abuse and addiction?

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2015

Authors

Melo, A (Author) FMUP; Isaura Tavares (Author) FMUP; Sousa, N (Author) Other; Pego, JM (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica

Vol. 59

Pages: 822-829

ISSN: 0001-5172

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00G-DFS

DOI: 10.1111/aas.12530

Abstract (EN): BackgroundGeneral anesthetics (GA) are well known for the ability to induce a state of reversible loss of consciousness and unresponsiveness to painful stimuli. However, evidence from animal models and clinical studies show that GA exposure may induce behavioral changes beyond acute effects. Most research and concerns are focused on changes in cognition and memory. MethodsWe will look at effects of GA on behavior that is mediated by the dopaminergic system. ResultsPharmacological resemblance of GA with drugs of abuse, and the complexity and importance of dopaminergic systems in both reward seeking and addictive illnesses make us believe that it deserves an overview about what is already known and what matters to us as healthcare workers and specifically as anesthesiologists. ConclusionA review of available evidence strongly suggests that there may be a link between the effects of GA on the brain and substance abuse, partly explained by their influence on the dopaminergic system.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 8