69 citations,
October 2013 in “Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology” This study investigated the effectiveness of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, in treating trichotillomania (TTM) in 51 adults over an 8-week, double-blind trial. While naltrexone did not significantly reduce hair pulling compared to placebo, it did improve cognitive flexibility (P = 0.026). Additionally, participants with a family history of addiction showed a greater, though not statistically significant, reduction in hair-pulling urges. The findings suggested that future research should explore the potential of targeting the opiate system for managing TTM in specific subgroups.
183 citations,
January 1987 in “British Journal of Anaesthesia” Opioid painkillers can cause many side effects, including breathing problems and addiction, but are generally considered safe when used properly.
77 citations,
December 2010 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology” Human skin cells produce proenkephalin, which changes with environmental factors and skin diseases.
September 2004 in “Experimental dermatology” Melatonin directly affects mouse hair follicles and may influence hair growth.
16 citations,
December 2005 in “The journal of investigative dermatology. Symposium proceedings/The Journal of investigative dermatology symposium proceedings” Hair color is determined by different melanins and changes with age.