Drug Against Alcohol Addiction Cures Kleptomaniacs

Scientists claim that pills usually taken to treat alcohol and drug addiction, could help in treating shoplifters by blocking their urge to steal.

According to the lead-researcher of the study, Dr Jon Grant, of the University of Minnesota, the drug called naltrexone was found to be effective in getting rid of the desire to steal that motivates kleptomaniacs.

"The difference in their behavior was significant, and these people were really troubled by their behavior," outlined the researcher.

The study and its results were published in the Journal of Biological Psychiatry, where Dr Grant and colleagues say they tested 25 patients, who in average spent at least 1 hour a week stealing, even though they can afford the things they steal.

The study lasted 8 weeks and during this period of time some volunteers were given naltrexone, while others simply took a placebo. The first group of patients reported a significant improvement, registering a lowered stealing behavior compared to those, who took the dummy drug, reports Star Tribune.

Scientists explain that the drug blocks nerve interactions in a person's brain. These nerve interactions are responsible for the feeling of pleasure. It is worth mentioning that you can buy the drug under the brand names Revia and Depade.