The effect of N-acetylcysteine on brain glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid concentrations and on smoking cessation: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Mhj Schulte, A E Goudriaan, A M Kaag, D P Kooi, W van den Brink, R W Wiers, L Schmaal

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

19 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Using data form a 14-day double-blind trial with 48 smokers randomized to either N-acetylcysteine (2400 mg) or placebo, we tested the effect of N-acetylcysteine on glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid concentrations in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and on smoking cessation. Smoking related behaviors and neurotransmitter concentrations in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex were assessed before and after treatment. Forty-seven non-smoking males served as baseline controls. Smokers showed higher baseline glutamate but similar gamma-aminobutyric acid concentrations than non-smokers. There were no treatment effects on dorsal anterior cingulate cortex neurotransmitter concentrations, smoking cessation, craving, or withdrawal symptoms. These results confirm glutamate disbalance in smokers, but not efficacy of N-acetylcysteine.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1377-1379
Number of pages3
JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology
Volume31
Issue number10
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2017
Externally publishedYes

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