An investigational dementia drug may also ease alcohol withdrawal by calming the brain inflammation linked to addiction and relapse.
Researchers at the University of Kentucky studied MW150, a compound targeting the p38α MAPK inflammation pathway. The drug, designed for mild to moderate Alzheimer's, is not yet approved.
In lab experiments, MW150 lowered inflammatory markers during alcohol withdrawal. Scientists believe neuroinflammation may drive relapse risk in alcohol use disorder.
"If follow-up experiments reveal similar anti-inflammatory effects... it would provide a strong rationale for development of MW150 as a treatment for those struggling with chronic alcohol relapse," said co-author Caleb Bailey.
MW150 and a related drug, Neflamapimod, are already in clinical trials for dementia. This could accelerate repurposing for alcohol use disorder.
Dr. Amy Swift of Silver Hill Hospital noted that detoxification alone does not treat the disorder itself. Adding neuroinflammatory treatments could improve recovery outcomes.
Bailey added, "We don't currently have robust pharmacological treatments to mitigate damage caused by chronic alcohol consumption. Minimizing alcohol consumption is the best strategy for staying healthy."