By Fiona Macrae
|
Doctors are testing a drug that could stop alcohol making people drunk.
The researchers believe iomazenil, taken before drinking, might negate some of alcohol’s effects on the brain.
Tests in a driving simulator will determine whether the drug makes volunteer drinkers safer behind the wheel after imbibing.
Drinking: A new drug could prevent drinkers from feeling the full effects of alcohol but researchers feel releasing it would encourage people to consume more
The results of a pilot study suggest those who take iomazenil before drinking brake more quickly and are less likely to stray into the wrong lane.
But the researchers, from Yale University in the U.S., do not want to develop a drug that simply allows people to drink more.
Research: The new drug, iomazenil is thought to negate some of the effects of drink on the brain
They hope that by stopping alcohol from getting to work on particular brain cells, iomazenil could help in developing a ‘stay sober’ pill to wean heavy drinkers off alcohol by taking some of the pleasure out of drinking.
This would reduce the damage done to the liver and other organs.
Researcher Deepak D’Souza, a psychiatrist, said: ‘A medication that has the potential to block alcohol actions in the central nervous system could act as a unique medication in the treatment of alcohol intoxication and alcoholism.
‘Alcohol is abused commonly but there is no remedy for alcohol intoxication.
‘This project is looking at the substance iomazenil and its effect on alcohol intoxication and alcohol’s effects on driving an automobile.’
He is far from the only researcher trying to find a way to take some of the harm out of drinking.
Studies: Researchers at Yale University in Connecticut, U.S. have already tested the drug on people in driving simulators
In other recent work on a potential ‘stay sober’ pill, mice given a drug didn’t get drunk, despite being given enough booze to make them stumble and fall.
It is hoped the drug, naloxone, a chemical cousin of a drug already used to save heroin addicts from overdose, will be given to people for the first time within 18 months.
In development: A number of other research is looking into potential ways to reduce the impact of alcohol on drinkers
However, the treatment is also likely to take the pleasure out of boozing. So while you might be able to tolerate booze better, you wouldn’t feel like drinking in the first place.
It is also unlikely that a ‘stay-sober’ pill would protect other organs, such as the liver, from damage.
A third option could be ‘harm-free’ alcohol.
British researchers are trying to develop liquid drugs that give all the pleasure of alcohol but without any of the harm.
The Valium-like pharmaceutical shots would mimic the pleasant buzz of alcohol without leading to drunkenness.
The substance would have the added bonus of an antidote that when taken would immediately ‘switch off’ its effects, allowing drinkers to drive home or return to work.
Critics say there is nothing to stop someone taking the new potion, getting tipsy and forgetting to take the antidote before getting in their car.
Such a potion is also unlikely to be welcomed with open arms by the multi-billion-pound drinks industry.
-
'First Gay President': Newsweek marks Obama's landmark... -
The most dangerous drug in the world: 'Devil's Breath'... -
Why man's best friend is also his worst photobomber:... -
Just the ticket for popping the question: The tree-lined... -
Prince William in line for £10m payout from Diana's estate... -
Nights in pink satin: The awkward prom photos you'd really... -
Empire Strikes Backstage: Intimate pictures of cast and crew... -
The 'jealous' First Lady: How Michelle orders women close to... -
Teenager asks NFL star to her senior prom on Twitter... and... -
Father hails 'miracle' recovery of daughter who lost leg to... -
Sex, lies and an insurance scam: The scandalous life of... -
Homeless man who 'killed and dismembered friend during...
Share this article:
Here's what other readers have said. Why not add your thoughts, or debate this issue live on our message boards.
The comments below have not been moderated.
- Newest
- Oldest
- Best rated
- Worst rated
Why go out and pay £3 for a pint to not get drunk, when you could do without the drug and just drink soft drinks for a cheaper night?!? What a load of rubbish.
Report abuse
It might be useful for a businessman who is trying to pull off a deal with a hard-drinking client who is more likely to sign after several drinks. However, it won't leave the "feeling-sober" guy fit to drive home afterwards - his blood-alcohol level will still be over the limit - and it won't stop damage to his liver.
Report abuse
What a load of old cods wallop!! Does anyone drink alcohol cause it taste nice?! No we drink it to get drunk, so if we now take a drug to STOP us getting drunk it defeats the purpose!!
Report abuse
" But the researchers, from Yale University in the U.S., do not want to develop a drug that simply allows people to drink more." The problem, "experts", is that this is PRECISELY" what will happen, with people treating it as a "cure" while having elevated blood alcohol levels, with the drug rapidly finding its way onto the illegal market.
Report abuse
Naloxone to stop you from getting drunk? Ridiculous. I am a recovering oxy-addict, and I take Suboxone which has Naloxone in it. It only prevents people from being able to feel something from an opioid, not alcohol. I really don't see that working. Also, with the first one when people drink they drink to get a buzz? If they could make a pill you take after drinking that sobers you up before you drive that could work, but I don't see how they could.
Report abuse
This could be a useful tool for the emergency services on a Friday or Saturday night.
Report abuse
Pointless...if you don't like feeling drunk then you wouldn't drink!
Report abuse
Chocolate fireguard!
Report abuse
Just don't drink the alcohol...
Report abuse
Why wasnt the research and money spent on other more important illnesses like cancer, i know the effects of alcohol and how alcohol can ruin lives etc as im a recovering alcoholic and almost died thru it , been dry for over 2 years But common sense tells me what an idiotic idea this is , it wont help solve problems
Report abuse
The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline.
Tidak ada komentar:
Posting Komentar