Koob: Understanding negative reinforcers of opioids could uncover new treatments.

A new research paper on the neurobiology of opioid addiction is replete with complex terms, such as the pivotal "hyperkatifeia" (coined about a decade ago to describe an increase in the intensity of the negative emotional signs of drug withdrawal). But the primary takeaway message from the report's author, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Director George Koob, M.D., is much more accessible and direct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]