[Effect of angiotensin II synthesis inhibition on alcohol consumption].

BACKGROUND

Central renin-angiotensin system modulates alcohol intake and inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme reduces ethanol consumption in rats, and may be potentially useful in the treatment of alcoholism.

AIM: To study the effect of captopril on alcohol intake, both in humans and animals .

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 15 alcoholics who met DSM-IV criteria were randomized to receive captopril 100 mg/day or placebo for 12 weeks. In the experimental study, daily consumption of ethanol (10% v/v), water and solid food was assessed in 12 male Wistar rats before and after the intraperitoneal administration of captopril 50 mg/kg/day.

RESULTS

In alcoholics, mean weekly standard alcoholic drink consumption was not different during captopril treatment or placebo. However, both groups had a significantly lower intake than during baseline. Days of abstinence increased and days of drunkeness decreased in the group receiving captopril, when compared with baseline but not with placebo. Craving was significantly reduced by captopril when compared with placebo. In rats, captopril reduced not only alcohol consumption but also water and food intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Captopril decreases alcohol intake in rats and this effect is not specific for ethanol. Captopril did not alter alcohol consumption in alcoholics when compared with placebo but reduced craving.