The neurotransmitter glutamate has emerged as a potential target in the treatment of addictions, such as cocaine, nicotine, and cannabis dependence. In animal studies, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) reverses drug-induced down-regulation of the cystine-glutamate exchanger, which restores normal regulation of glutamate release, reducing compulsive drug-seeking behaviors [68]. Consistent with this evidence, preliminary studies have demonstrated significant reductions in cocaine craving [69] and cigarette use [70] during NAC treatment.
