Exercise May Help Reduce Binging Patterns of Cocaine Use
A new study has found that aerobic exercise may protect against binging patterns of cocaine use. The study, led by Mark A. Smith, PhD, of Davidson College, discovered that rats that used running wheels self-administered less cocaine than rats that did not run. Smith said that this study is the first demonstration that exercise reduces binge-like patterns of cocaine use. The study adds to a growing body of evidence that physical activity may help with patterns of drug use.
Many drug addicts experience episodes of brief, excessive drug consumption, or “binges.” These compulsive binges are associated with negative consequences, such as crime, overdose, and risky sexual behavior. Reducing the duration or severity of these binges could significantly impact public health.
Smith said that although clinical trials looking at the impact of aerobic exercise have not yet been conducted, recent studies have found that people who participate in aerobic exercise during addiction treatment programs show higher abstinence rates.
Presented at Neuroscience 2010 in San Diego, the study also supports expanding exercise-based programs in addiction treatment.
Source: Science Daily, Aerobic Exercise May Reduce Excessive Cocaine Use, November 23, 2010
