The Role of the Glutamatergic System in the Extinction of Conditioned Reinforcement Processes

Inclusion Criteria: * current DSM-IV/ ICD-10 diagnosis of alcohol dependence * controlled abstinence for a period of 5 to 21 days following admission to inpatient detoxification or day-clinic care * women (in childbearing age): use of a highly effective method of contraception * normal or corrected-to-normal vision * ability to provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of additional axis I or II disorders (according to DSM-IV( ICD- 10 criteria) either currently or within the past 12 months (except nicotine dependence) * positive drug screening * current medication with anti-convulsive or psychotropic drugs * MRI ineligibility * sensitivity to study medication as evidenced by a history of adverse drug experience * severe withdrawal symptoms (e.g. convulsions, delirium) * disposition towards experiencing convulsions/ epilepsy * history of schizophrenic disorders/ affective psychosis * neurological diseases that might affect the dopaminergic, limbic and frontal cortices or extrapyramidal motor functioning * major diseases (e.g. diabetes, liver cirrhosis, heart disease) * physical illness interfering with study procedures or affecting study outcomes * pregnancy (positive test results)/ lactation period * suicidal tendencies/ increased risk that others might be harmed -