Imaging study reveals white-matter deficits in users of codeine-containing cough syrups

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-08/ason-isr082014.php

PUBLIC RELEASE DATE: 20-Aug-2014

Contact: Angelo Artemakis
American Society of Neuroradiology
Imaging study reveals white-matter deficits in users of codeine-containing cough syrups

Aug. 20, 2014 -- An imaging study of chronic users of codeine-containing cough syrups (CCS) has found deficits in specific regions of brain white matter and associates these changes with increased impulsivity in CCS users.

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The study found the white matter deficits in CCS users also correlated with increased impulsivity traits in the subjects, as measured by the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale. These findings were consistent with results of previous studies of heroin and cocaine addicts. White matter disruptions also correlated with the duration of CCS use.

Codeine-containing cough syrups have become one of the most popular drugs of abuse in young people around the world. Progressive changes in the white matter of users' brains may cause greater impulsivity in CCS users.