The particular characteristics of the brain activity of a cocaine user.
These have recently been detected by a study published in Addiction Biology and disseminated in Spain by the Medciencia portal.
The study asked cocaine users to perform a task consisting of gambling games, where money could be won or lost, while their brain activity was measured. It was observed that, compared to healthy individuals, users of this substance showed hyperactivation of a deep brain region called the ventral striatum, belonging to the well-known brain “reward circuit” and responsible for basic behaviors such as eating and sex.
In addition, an “abnormal” activation of the so-called prefrontal cortex was also detected, an area responsible for regulating human behavior, including the inhibition of automatic impulsive behaviors.
The brain response is altered by cocaine use. This was reflected in the participants’ behavior during the gambling games:
- Healthy players abandoned the game when they lost. Their brain detected that it was not worth playing, that it was an adverse behavior. The key? They showed activation of the prefrontal cortex.
- In contrast, cocaine users showed this brain area inactive. That is, it did not respond to the adverse consequences of their behaviors.
In summary, in the brain of a cocaine user, the balance of two key areas is altered: the ventral striatum and the prefrontal cortex. As a consequence, difficulties arise in establishing priorities, as well as in decision-making and inhibition of inappropriate behaviors.
How to quit cocaine?
Users who decide to undergo treatment to quit cocaine can regain control of their lives. At CC Adicciones, the first visit is free, and with the information from that visit, the medical team evaluates and advises on the type of cocaine treatment the patient should follow.
At CC Adicciones, the treatment is free of any toxic substances; the ultimate goal is to have a life without any dependency. Request more information by calling 902 400 426 or by email at jvillaescusa@ccadiccionesroda.es
