Excerpt:

"For the study, researchers identified the genotypes of 46 people (23 couples) as either GG, AG or AA. People who had a GG genotype were more "pro-social," while people with an AG or AA genotype were less likely to be empathetic or have parental sensitivity, and also had fewer positive emotions."

For the complete article, go to: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/1 ... 93483.html

According to what I've read on this forum, GG (and AG) genotype people are more susceptible to addiction and therefore more responsive to naltrexone blocking the pleasure receptors.

The study cited in the article above intrigued me as my experience in a month of rehab and ongoing outpatient treatment has led me to believe that recovering alcoholics are some of the most kind, compassionate (and intelligent) people I've met. And many current addicts I know are gentle souls who seem more emotionally effected by external events...who knows if there's a link, but it's food for thought anyway.

I haven't had genetic testing yet, anyone out there have experiences with it to share? It seems to cost a lot to do it online, so I'm thinking of trying to get a referral from my doc but I'm skeptical that my health insurance provider will be cooperative.

Rhonda

Hi Rhonda,
I am brand new to this board so i hope I don't mess anything up. I thought the article you
shared was interesting. I have always had obnoxiously happy state of mind even in the morning!
Anyway its funny to me that people always tell me I am too happy. I have been offended by it.
One time this co-worker said you are so happy like you hit the lottery or something. But it kind of
makes since to me now. If I do have an overproduction of endorphins when I drink alcohol
(as The Dr. referred to in his book) then I am sure I have come across as way too over happy at
times probably ate something sweet?? I don't know I just know it very hard to bring me down. Although
I do have the ability to bring myself down

Hi Rebecca,

Welcome to the forum! Have you thought about genetic testing? After reading the study, I am now even more curious as to whether I might be a GG type or at least an AG. Of course my first priority is to find out whether I have a good chance of responding to Naltrexone, but it seems you can find out even more about yourself from genetic testing aside from addictive tendencies...

Are you currently on the Sinclair method? I'm seven weeks sober and doing okay, so I'm not willing to risk re-addiction unless I'm fairly confident NAL will work for me. I do miss my red wine, so it would be nice to know I could have it on occasion if I like

Rhonda

Rhonda,

Hi I am not sure where I could these kinds of test done. Also how exensive are they do you
know. My sister want me to the Cancer test but I am afraid. Also am waiting for my Nal thru
the River pharmacy takes three weeks. Thank you


gg