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The relevance and treatment of cue-induced cravings in tobacco dependence

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 00:36 authored by Stuart FergusonStuart Ferguson, Shiffman, S
Craving to smoke is often conceptualized and measured as a tonic, slowly changing state induced by abstinence. In this article, we review the literature on the existence, causes, and treatment of cue-induced cravings: intense, episodic cravings typically provoked by situational cues associated with drug use. In laboratory research, smokers exposed to smoking-related cues demonstrate increased craving as well as distinct patterns of brain activation. Observational field studies indicate that such cue-induced cravings are substantially responsible for relapse to smoking but that smoking can often be averted by coping responses. The effects of pharmacological interventions are mixed. Steady-state medications (bupropion, varenicline, nicotine patch) do not appear to protect smokers from cue-induced cravings. However, acutely administered nicotine medications (such as nicotine gum and lozenge), used after cue exposure as “rescue medications,” can help a smoker's recovery from cue-induced cravings. Cue-induced craving plays an important role in smoking and relapse and likely in other addictions as well. Treatments to mitigate the effect of cue-induced craving are both important and needed.

History

Publication title

Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment

Volume

36

Pagination

235-243

ISSN

0740-5472

Department/School

School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology

Publisher

Elsevier Inc.

Place of publication

United States

Rights statement

The definitive version is available at http://www.sciencedirect.com

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Preventive medicine

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