Czermainski FR, Willhelm AR, Santos ÁZ, Pachado MP, de Almeida RMM. Assessment of inhibitory control in crack and/or cocaine users: a systematic review.
TRENDS IN PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY 2017;
39:216-225. [PMID:
28813109 DOI:
10.1590/2237-6089-2016-0043]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Impairments involving inhibitory control have been considered central deficits in drug users, but it appears that dysfunctions may be specific to users' drug of choice. This article aims to review recent findings on inhibitory control impairment in samples of crack and/or cocaine users.
METHODS
Searches were conducted on the PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Knowledge databases in two stages according to eligibility criteria. Initially, databases were searched and the titles and abstracts of results were analyzed and then selected articles were read in full. Inclusion criteria were: empirical articles written in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, published in the last ten years and involving the assessment of inhibitory control in crack and/or cocaine users.
RESULTS
The database searches returned a total of 3,796 titles, 56 of them were selected initially and then a further 20 were excluded. Thirty-six articles were included in this review. In 90% of the studies reviewed the presence of inhibitory control deficits was reported, verified by impaired cognitive processing and response monitoring, as well as high levels of impulsiveness, regardless of the pattern of crack and/or cocaine consumption (recreational or chronic). Former users showed high levels of impulsiveness even after long periods of abstinence.
CONCLUSIONS
Crack and/or cocaine users may have inhibitory control deficits, irrespective of different consumption patterns. High levels of impulsiveness can represent a factor of vulnerability to drug use and relapse.
Collapse