Effect of angiotensin II synthesis inhibition on alcohol consumption Efecto de la inhibición de la síntesis de angiotensina II en el consumo de alcohol

Abstract

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 c