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Drug Abuse and Memory Loss
Memory loss is one of the many adverse consequences of alcohol and drug abuse. Memory loss may or may not be recoverable after chronic abuse of recreational substances such as marijuana, ecstasy, opiates, and cocaine. More research is being put into identifying which substances produce dementia-like symptoms and other cognitive issues since drug abuse remains a pervasive problem in modern culture.
Illegal Drugs That Cause Memory Loss
People may be drawn to drugs that cause memory loss to escape more pressing problems like anxiety, depression or trauma; nevertheless, the resulting memory loss may be more than they bargained for. According to studies, the memory difficulties brought on by many illegal drugs are permanent. Most illegal drugs alter the brain’s chemical make-up. Here is a list of 3 popular illegal drugs that induce memory loss.
List of Drugs That Cause Memory Loss
- Cocaine
Cocaine abuse has been linked to memory loss severally. For its stimulating effects on the brain, cocaine is a nervous system stimulant. Feelings of extreme exhilaration, well-being, and confidence may be attributed to Coke because it blocks the brain’s absorption of extra dopamine. Cocaine has been linked in recent research to memory loss. The research tracked 57 cocaine users and 48 non-users for a year to draw comparisons. When the end of the year findings were compared, those who had taken cocaine performed worse across the board, notably in terms of working memory. Furthermore, crack cocaine is a highly addictive substance that may lead to memory loss. It is also thought that after someone stops using cocaine, most of the memory loss that it produces may be restored. Cocaine is so highly addictive that almost everyone who uses it needs professional assistance to kick the habit finally.
- Ketamine
Ketamine is often administered as an anesthetic due to its dissociative effects but it’s also a widely abused illegal substance. Ketamine, sometimes known as “Special K,” is a dissociative drug that alters consciousness by altering the activity of certain brain chemicals, leading to hallucinations, distorted perceptions of sound, and a general sense of disconnection from the external world. It is often available as a white or off-white powder that may be compressed into tablets or mixed with water to produce a solution. When the hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus (or hippocampal gyrus) are inhibited by ketamine, memory is also impaired. Long-term ketamine misuse has been linked to memory loss, even though short-term use in a medical setting does not affect memory.
- Marijuana
The psychoactive ingredient in marijuana (dry cannabis plant leaves and flowers), THC, has been shown to bind to receptors in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala. Several research papers have highlighted the fact that short-term memory loss, psychomotor impairment, and other diminished cognitive processes are all caused by marijuana abuse.
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All drug and alcohol addiction treatment services offered at Taylor Recovery Center are comprehensive and evidence based. When it comes to becoming clean, we know that everyone has unique requirements. Our therapy is structured to bolster your best qualities rather than only addressing your weaknesses. We aim for permanent healing so that our patients may live fulfilling lives. Reach out to Taylor Recovery Center today and begin your journey to long-term sobriety.