Abstract

MENDEZ-DIAZ, Mónica et al. Impulsivity`s role in substance use disorder. Psychol. av. discip. [online]. 2021, vol.15, n.1, pp.83-93.  Epub Jan 13, 2022. ISSN 1900-2386.  https://doi.org/10.21500/19002386.5390.

The proportion of users of a substance of abuse who develop problems with its use (abuse or dependence) represents only a part of this population. In Mexico, 63.8% of the population consumes alcohol and only 15% of them develop an alcohol use disorder (AUD). A causal relation has been observed between substance use disorder (SUD) and the lack of self-control. Which means, satisfying needs in an impulsive way, v.gr. using a drug, without considering the consequences. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the main neuroanatomical substrate of self-control and characteristically reaches maturity around the age of 30, suggesting that self-control is reached after this age. We suggest that all age groups that have not consolidated the use of self-control are vulnerable to SUD. The same occurs with those who, due to a psychiatric disorder, have the characteristic of a limited prefrontal function. The PFC coordinates a subcortical network whose interaction depends on different neurotransmission systems among them, the endocannabinoids system (ECBs). In this work we will review the function of the PFC, the ECBs and its relationship with vulnerability to addiction and other psychiatric disorders.

Keywords : Impulsivity; self-control; substance use disorder; psychiatric disorders.

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