Increased EEG gamma power under exposure to drug-related cues: a translational index for cue-elicited craving in METH-dependent individuals

BackgroundThis study explored the feasibility of using EEG gamma-band (30-49 Hz) power as an index of cue-elicited craving in METH-dependent individuals.MethodsTwenty-nine participants dependent on methamphetamine (METH) and 30 healthy participants were instructed to experience a METH-related virtual reality (VR) social environment.ResultsIndividuals with METH dependence showed significantly stronger self-reported craving and higher gamma power in a VR environment than healthy individuals. In the METH group, the VR environment elicited a significant increase in gamma power compared with the resting state. The METH group then received a VR counterconditioning procedure (VRCP), which was deemed useful in suppressing cue-induced reactivity. After VRCP, participants showed significantly lower self-reported craving scores and gamma power when exposed to drug-related cues than the first time.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that the EEG gamma-band power may be a marker of cue-induced reactivity in patients with METH dependence.

Automated summary

This study explores the feasibility of using EEG gamma-band power as an index of cue-elicited craving in individuals with METH dependence. The results show that METH-dependent individuals exhibit stronger self-reported craving and higher gamma power in a virtual reality environment. After a virtual reality counterconditioning procedure, participants show significantly lower self-reported craving scores and gamma power when exposed to drug-related cues.