Researchers revealed that "Apremilast," a medication for a common skin condition, has been proven to be "very promising" as a cure for alcoholism. The Journal of Clinical Investigation recently published the findings.

The drug reduced the average alcohol consumption from five to two drinks per day, which was very significant.

At the beginning of 2015, scientists analyzed the genetic database for compounds that might suppress the expression of genes connected to heavy alcohol intake. In the search, they found "Apremilast," an FDA-approved anti-inflammatory drug used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, a potential contender.

Initially, the researchers tested the drug on two special animal models genetically predisposed to excessive drinking and on different strains of mice in labs around the US. They discovered that Apremilast activated the brains nucleus accumbens, which regulates alcohol consumption. Apremilast decreased drinking in each instance among a range of models susceptible to moderate to excessive alcohol usage.

Then they studied the effect of Apremilast in human subjects. 51 participants were evaluated over an 11-day treatment period in a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical proof-of-concept research carried out by the team. 

They claimed that Apremilast significantly lowered the drinking rates and was well tolerated among participants. These make "Apremilast" an outstanding option for further investigation as a cutting-edge treatment for people with alcohol consumption disorder. The study involved people with alcohol use disorder who werent seeking treatment.

To conclude, the experts predict that “Apremilast” may be even more effective among people who are motivated to reduce their alcohol consumption and that more clinical trials are essential for individuals seeking treatment to help people come out of their drinking addiction generally.

(Source:  https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/pill-for-skin-disease-may-also-curb-excessive-drinking-research-101677055499626.html)