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In animal models, chronic administration of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a prodrug of the amino acid cysteine, normalized drug-induced pathology and reduced drug seeking. These investigators conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 8-week trial of NAC (1200 mg twice daily) in 116 treatment-seeking, cannabis-dependent adolescents.
Abstinence was determined by weekly urine cannabinoid tests during treatment. Participants had no concurrent substance dependence aside from nicotine. All received weekly 10-minute cessation counseling sessions and twice-weekly contingency management, which paid for adherence and clean test results ($5 initially, escalating for additional progress).
Participants receiving NAC had significa…