The authors evaluated the effect of art acute reduction in catecholami
ne synthesis, produced by alpha methyl para tyrosine (AMPT), on cue-in
duced craving for cocaine in cocaine-dependent patients. AMPT and diph
enhydramine were administered under double-blind conditions in a rando
mized, crossover design. Two cue exposure sessions were conducted 1 we
ek apart. Self-reported assessments of cocaine craving were administer
ed before and after cue exposure. AMPT, but not diphenhydramine, signi
ficantly decreased plasma levels of the dopamine metabolite, homovanil
lic acid and the norepinephrine metabolite, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyle
thylene glycol. However, AMPT's effects on cue-induced craving interac
ted with the test-day order in a complex manner.