Abstract
Benzodiazepines treat anxiety, but can also produce euphoric effects, contributing to abuse. Using perfusion magnetic resonance imaging, we provide the first direct evidence in humans that alprazolam (Xanax) acutely increases perfusion in the nucleus accumbens, a key reward-processing region linked to addiction.
Publication types
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Letter
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Administration, Oral
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Alprazolam / administration & dosage*
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Anti-Anxiety Agents / administration & dosage*
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Anxiety / drug therapy
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Benzodiazepines / therapeutic use
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Cerebrovascular Circulation / drug effects
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Cross-Sectional Studies
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Double-Blind Method
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Female
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Humans
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging
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Male
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Nucleus Accumbens / diagnostic imaging
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Nucleus Accumbens / drug effects*
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Positron-Emission Tomography
Substances
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Anti-Anxiety Agents
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Benzodiazepines
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Alprazolam