Possible Interaction: Cocaine and Melatonin

“Additionally, melatonin and its MT1 and MT2 receptors have been found to participate in modulation of the reinforcing effects of such addictive drugs as cocaine.”

“Conclusion: Given its ability to mitigate various reinforcing effects of cocaine, melatonin could be a useful therapy for cocaine abuse.”

“In addition, several studies in rodents have shown that administration of melatonin decreased the reinforcing effects of cocaine.”

“Diurnal synthesis and release of the pineal hormone melatonin influence the DTD behavioral actions of cocaine and amphetamines.”

“Conclusions/Significance These findings demonstrate that, in a diurnal vertebrate, prenatal cocaine can acutely dysregulate the expression of circadian genes and those affecting melatonin signaling, growth and neurotransmission, while repeated cocaine exposure can alter neuronal development.”

“Daily variation in these effects of cocaine and their attenuation by melatonin suggest a potential prophylactic or therapeutic role for circadian factors in prenatal cocaine exposure.”

“The principal circadian hormone, melatonin , counteracts the effects of cocaine on neuronal development and gene expression, acting via specific melatonin receptors.”

“Some studies report that dosing of melatonin decreases cocaine-induced locomotor activity and cocaine self-administration and that luzindole, an MT1, and MT2 melatonin receptor antagonist, blocks the melatonin-dependent decrease in cocaine-induced locomotor activity.”

“ResultsBoth doses of melatonin decreased the number of active pokes in both break point and cue-induced reinstatement tests, demonstrating that melatonin can reduce the cocaine-seeking behavior and the motivation to work for cocaine.”

“Exogenous melatonin given immediately before cocaine challenge slightly enhanced long-term sensitization.”