Solvent addiction leads to poor decision-making — study

Solvent abuse affects social behavior and decision-making, a team of Filipino scientists and experts found.

The study, "Novel Approaches to Treatment of Addiction and Depression Using Animal Models," showed that the brain's ability to process information is heavily affected by repeated inhalation of solvent use.

The study further found that, over time, it becomes difficult for individuals to make wise choices and engage in normal social interactions, leading to societal withdrawal and a deepened cycle of addiction.

According to the researchers, the treatment of toluene-based solvent addiction is part of the objectives of the three-year research program, which focuses on the effects of chronic exposure to inhalants, particularly toluene, on the brains of adolescents.

Now nearing completion at the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila-National Institute of Health, scientists are currently testing new low-cost treatments for solvent addiction using this animal model.

Toluene is a colorless liquid used in paints, paint thinners, and glue. It is also found in nail polish, gasoline, and waterproof adhesives.

Through a series of experiments, the experts found that rats exposed to toluene made poor decisions and failed to socially interact with other rats.

Program leader Rohani Cena-Navarro said they studied both male and female rats to reflect the "use of abused inhalants by boys and girls."

Cena-Navarro explained that this will allow scientists to develop treatments that are equally effective in both sexes.

"The use of rats allows us to examine the effects of abused drugs on the brain. Our goal is to reverse these effects so as to restore the brain to its normal function," the head researcher said.

"Because addiction has been established as a brain disorder, the clinician can tell the patient, 'You are not weak. The chemical compound rewires the brain and impairs its decision-making process.'"

The Filipina scientist further explained that rehabilitating the adolescent brain can end the cycle of addictive behavior and relapse, allowing young people to "restore their relationships and plan for the future."

Founded by the Department of Science and Technology, the research was carried out by the UP Manila National Institutes of Health, together with experts from the National Center for Mental Health, UP College of Medicine, the Philippine General Hospital, and the UP Diliman College of Science Institute of Chemistry.