The effects of dopaminergic D2 stimulation and blockade on smoking behavior

Exp Clin Psychopharmacol. 1999 Feb;7(1):72-8. doi: 10.1037//1064-1297.7.1.72.

Abstract

Researchers have hypothesized that dopamine mediates the reinforcing effects of stimulant drugs, including nicotine. Three experiments tested whether manipulating dopamine would alter human smoking behavior. Experiments used double-blind, repeated measures designs. In Experiment 1, 4 participants were given haloperidol (a dopamine antagonist; placebo, 0.5, and 1.0 mg) on 3 occasions. The smoking rate was faster in the 1.0 mg versus the placebo condition. In Experiment 2, 12 participants were given haloperidol (2.0 mg) and placebo on 2 occasions. The intercigarette interval was shorter at the expected time of peak drug concentration. In Experiment 3, 5 participants were given bromocriptine (a dopamine agonist, 2.5 mg) and placebo on 2 occasions. The smoking rate was significantly slower with bromocriptine. These results suggest that blockade of D2 receptors increases smoking whereas their stimulation decreases smoking.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bromocriptine / pharmacology
  • Dopamine Agonists / pharmacology*
  • Dopamine Antagonists / pharmacology*
  • Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Haloperidol / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Receptors, Dopamine D2 / agonists*
  • Smoking / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Dopamine Agonists
  • Dopamine Antagonists
  • Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists
  • Receptors, Dopamine D2
  • Bromocriptine
  • Haloperidol