Related Experiment Videos
Acute cocaine effects on absolute cerebral blood flow
E A Wallace1, G Wisniewski, G Zubal
1Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, Connecticut 06516, USA.
Psychopharmacology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Cocaine significantly reduces absolute cerebral blood flow (CBF) by 30% in users, a finding more pronounced than previously observed relative blood flow changes. This study quantifies cocaine
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Radiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cocaine use is linked to vasoconstriction and stroke.
- Previous studies indicate cocaine decreases relative cerebral blood flow (rCBF).
- Absolute rCBF quantification in cocaine users remains unaddressed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitate the effects of intravenous cocaine hydrochloride on absolute cerebral blood flow (rCBF).
- To compare cocaine's impact on absolute rCBF versus relative blood flow changes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 99mTc-HMPAO SPECT imaging in four cocaine users.
- Employed a modified microsphere model for quantitative CBF measurement.
- Administered 40 mg IV cocaine hydrochloride and placebo.
Main Results:
- Cocaine induced significant rCBF decreases across all brain regions studied.
- A mean reduction of 30% in absolute whole brain blood flow was observed (P = 0.002).
- The decrease in absolute blood flow was threefold greater than relative blood flow changes.
Conclusions:
- Cocaine significantly reduces absolute cerebral blood flow in humans.
- Quantitative SPECT imaging reveals a substantial impact of cocaine on brain perfusion.
- Findings highlight the potential cerebrovascular risks associated with cocaine use.