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Cocaine use diminishes reward cells

It is known that cocaine is a dangerous drug, but it can also and has toxic effects on brain cells (neurons) that produce dopamine, say experts at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston America.

Brain tissue acquired from dead donors were compared, and the number of dopamine cells in the brains of 10 cocaine users were compared to brains of nine people who did not use the drug.

The findings showed significantly fewer dopamine cells, 16 percent, in the brains of cocaine users.

Dopamine plays a large role in the awareness of pleasurable things in the environment, including food and sex. A lack of dopamine cells may make a person less responsive to natural rewards, whether in the workplace or in a relationship.”

It could also lead to withdrawal or depression symptoms, cocaine use may theoretically increase the risk of Parkinson’s Disease, but the mechanisms involved may be different and not occur in the same individuals

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