Scientists in Brazil have developed a new vaccine that could potentially treat addiction to cocaine and crack. The vaccine, called “Calixcoca,” has shown promising results in animal trials by triggering an immune response that blocks the drugs from reaching the brain. Users would no longer experience a high from the drug, potentially helping them break the cycle of addiction. If approved, this would be the first time a vaccine is used to treat cocaine addiction.
Psychiatrist Frederico Garcia, who led the team at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, states that there is currently no registered treatment specifically targeting cocaine and crack addiction. The usual approach involves a combination of psychological counseling, social assistance, and rehabilitation. However, the Calixcoca vaccine could become an important tool in addiction treatment, particularly during critical stages of recovery.
The vaccine is made with lab-designed chemical compounds, making it less expensive to produce compared to other vaccines. Additionally, it does not require cold storage temperatures, further reducing costs and logistical requirements. However, Garcia emphasizes that the vaccine will not be a one-size-fits-all solution. The target group will be determined based on the outcome of clinical trials but is expected to focus on recovering addicts who want to maintain their sobriety.
Currently, one in four regular cocaine users becomes addicted, according to the US National Institute on Drug Abuse. Moreover, only one in four addicts successfully quit after five years of treatment. With such high stakes, anticipation surrounding the Calixcoca vaccine is significant. Over 3,000 individuals have volunteered to participate in the upcoming clinical trials.
The groundbreaking project was awarded the top prize of 500,000 euros ($530,000) at the Euro Health Innovation awards for Latin American medicine, sponsored by pharmaceutical company Eurofarma. The vaccine has demonstrated effectiveness in animals, generating significant levels of antibodies against cocaine with few side effects. It has also been found to protect rat fetuses from cocaine, suggesting potential use in pregnant addicts to safeguard unborn babies.
Calixcoca is now poised to enter the final stage of trials, with testing to commence on humans. If successful, this vaccine could reshape addiction treatment and potentially combat the global cocaine and crack epidemic.