Semantic priming and verbal learning in current opiate users, ex-users and non-user controls.

Objective: Despite a growing interest in memory functions of chronic drug users, investigation of semantic and episodic memory in opiate users is limited, and findings of studies have been inconsistent. The present study aimed to assess semantic memory and episodic memory for both drug-related and neutral stimuli in current and ex-users of opiates.

Methods: Using an independent group design, we assessed semantic priming and verbal learning in 16 current opiate users on a methadone maintenance programme, 16 ex-opiate users in rehabilitation programmes and 16 healthy controls.

Attentional bias, inhibitory control and acute stress in current and former opiate addicts.

Background: Drug dependence is associated with both attentional biases to drug-related cues and inhibitory control deficits. Although acute stress is known to increase craving, it is not known whether this effect is mediated via changes in attentional bias and inhibitory control.

Objectives: To examine the effect of a mild stressor on inhibitory control, attentional bias and craving in current opiate users (methadone maintained), ex-users (currently abstinent) and non-users (healthy controls).