Biologics to Treat Substance Use Disorders

This book is a scientific compendium documenting the state of the art in the discovery and development of vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and enzymes for the treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs). Detailed consideration is given to vaccines for nicotine, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine dependence; monoclonal antibodies against cocaine, methamphetamine, and phencyclidine; and the enzymes butyrylcholinesterase and cocaine esterase. In addition, a wide range of new strategies designed to optimize the development and efficacy of biologics are reviewed.§SUDs are complex medical conditions that require multiple treatment approaches, psychosocial and pharmacological therapies being the most frequent interventions. Most research on pharmacotherapies for SUDs has focused on small molecule approaches that target a protein (e.g., receptor) in the brain. However, biologics - large molecules that do not cross the blood-brain barrier but either prevent or markedly restrict the access of the abused drug to the brain - offer exciting new therapeutic opportunities. This book will serve as an authoritative reference for all who have an interest in the field.