Cognitive Deficits in Cocaine Users

Abstract

Chronic cocaine use can result in neuropsychological performance deficits and brain metabolism and perfusion abnormalities. These problems can be reversed and improved during abstinence. Memory storage difficulties cause significant verbal learning efficacy impairment in chronic cocaine users. Cognitive flexibility, learning, memory, attention and reaction time impairment can be seen in chronic cocaine users. Wisconsin card sorting test shows a strong correlation between deteriorations of moderate executive performance and the chronicity of cocaine and other drugs use [1-3].