Previous studies have suggested that women become addicted to cocaine more easily than men, and also find it harder to quit. A new study has found that female rats are much more motivated to work for a cocaine reward than male rats.

The study, by researchers at the Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute at the University of Michigan, found that rats with an elevated stress response and increased impulsivity were more easily trained to self-reward with cocaine. These rats were also more determined to get their next dose of cocaine than similar rats with lower stress responses and lower impulsivity.

Cocaine addiction has been associated with thrill-seeking and impulsive behavior, but this study suggests that gender differences also play a role. For both types of rats (impulsive and less impulsive), the females were the quickest to learn to self-administer cocaine and were more willing to work harder for their next dose. As the cocaine doses were increased, the differences between males and females were less apparent.

Dr. Jennifer Cummings said while an individual’s predisposition to drug addiction plays a role, an individual’s gender also increases the likelihood of drug abuse.

These findings could help scientists and addiction treatment centers develop more targeted approaches that focus on gender and personality type to those seeking treatment for cocaine addiction.

Source: Science Daily, Thrill-Seeking Females Work Hard for Their Next Fix, Rat Study Suggests, March 14, 2011