Teen drug use may cause long-term health effects

By Staff Writer

A new study reveals that teenagers who use drugs are more likely to develop long-lasting consequences than adults who take illegal substances.

According to research that was presented at the Society for Neuroscience's annual meeting, individuals who start using drugs during adolescence are more likely to experience cognitive shortfalls later in life. Because teens' brains are only about 80 percent developed, the study suggests that use of illegal substances can have negative long-term impacts.

In a study of rats, researchers found that adolescents are more susceptible to lower doses of cocaine, and they are willing to work more for the stimulant. Furthermore, amphetamine abuse during teen years permanently alters brain cells involved in memory and decision-making.

The study also revealed that the more marijuana a person uses corresponds to greater difficulties in focus and attention.

An expert on brain developmental stages said that a better understanding of the effects of drug exposure during adolescence can help scientists and clinicians enhance intervention and treatment methods.

The Office of National Drug Control Policy reports that mental health problems, including depression, developmental lags, apathy, withdrawal and other psychosocial dysfunctions, are frequently linked to substance abuse among adolescents.