Addictive Substances and Neurological Disease

Addictive Substances and Neurological Disease is a complete guide to the manifold effects of addictive substances on the brain, and reviews developing research on how these substances are implicated in neurological development and dysfunction. Cannabis, cocaine, and other illicit drugs can have substantial negative effects on the structure and functioning of the brain. However, other common habituating and addictive substances often used as part of an individual’s lifestyle alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, painkillers can also compromise brain health, and can effect or accentuate neurological disease. This book provides broad coverage of the effects of addictive substances on the brain, beginning with an overview of how the substances lead to dysfunction before examining each substance in depth. It discusses the pathology of addiction and the structural damage resulting from abuse of various substances, and covers the neurobiological, neurodegenerative, behavioral, and cognitive implications of use across the lifespan, from prenatal exposure to adolescents to the elderly. This book aids researchers seeking an understanding of the neurological changes that these substances induce, as well as those seeking potential treatments and therapies for individuals suffering from abuse of these substances. Integrates current research on the actions of addictive substances in neurological diseaseIncludes functional foods. such as caffeine beverages, that have habituating effects on the brainProvides synopsis of key ideas associated with the consequences of addictive and habituating lifestyle substances