P03-248 - Prospects Of Stem Cells Therapy In The Treatment Of Substance Use Disorders

Abstract

Substance use disorders are common to many countries and cause significant problem to public health. Millions of people worldwide are affected by substance use disorders. In 2002 the World Health Organization estimated that 91 million people are affected by alcohol use disorders and 15 million by substance use disorders. According to experts’ estimates, cases of substance use disorders are presently on the increase. With the latest advancements in stem cell research, coupled with the inadequacy in the normal pharmacotherapy, there is immense need for the development of stem cell therapy for substance use disorders. The regenerative ability of stem cells to restore damaged tissues/cells, including its paracrine effects can be harnessed for substance use disorders. Recent studies show that embryonic stem cells may have potential use in the treatment of chronic alcoholism, especially in children. Stem cell therapy will enhance and better the treatment outcome for substance use disorders. Extensive research in substance use disorders using stem cells is therefore highly encouraged.