Effect of Heroin Use on Changes of Brain Functions as Measured by fMRI, a Systematic Review.

J Addict Dis. 2017 Jan 17;:0

Authors: Fareed A, Kim J, Ketchen B, Kwak WJ, Wang D, Shongo-Hiango H, Drexler K

Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In this study we focus on reviewing imaging studies that used resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for individuals with a history of heroin use. This review study compiled existing research addressing the effect of heroin use on decision making by reviewing available functional neuroimaging data..
METHODS: Systematic review of the literatures using the PRISMA checklist. Eligible articles were retrieved through a computer-based MEDLINE and PsycINFO search from 1960 to December 2015 using the major medical subject headings 'heroin, fMRI' (all fields). Only English language were included.
RESULTS: Thirty-seven articles were initially included in the review. Sixteen were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. We present the results of 21 articles that met all the inclusion criteria.
CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE: Based on the 21 studies included in this review, there is evidence that heroin use may have a direct and damaging effect on certain brain functions and that these changes may be associated with impulsive and unhealthy decision making. From our review of these studies, we understand that longer duration of heroin use may be associated with more damaging effects on brain functions. We also understand that these brain changes could last long after abstinence, which may increase the risk of relapse to heroin use. More research is needed to create a biomarker map for patients with heroin use disorder that can be used to guide and assess response to treatment.

PMID: 28095255 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]