EFFECTS OF COCAINE USE ON COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING IN PEOPLE WITH HIV: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Zarate-Lozano K.A.; Sánchez-Amate M.C.; Barboza-Palomino M. · Health and Addictions / Salud y Drogas (2026) · DOI: 10.21134/988

Resumen

Introduction. Cocaine is a highly addictive substance that impairs cognitive functioning. Similarly, HIV has been linked to cognitive deficits. Moreover, cocaine use is more prevalent among individuals living with HIV than in the general population. Within this framework, the present review aims to examine the effects of cocaine use on the cognitive functioning of individuals diagnosed with HIV. Method. PRISMA guidelines were followed and the literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus and PsycInfo. 15 articles were selected and reviewed, all cases and controls. Results. The articles refer to the use of neurocognitive tests and/or neuroimaging techniques and their findings show an additive and, in other cases, synergistic effect of cocaine consumption on the cognitive system. Among the most affected domains are verbal memory and executive functions (working memory and decision making). Likewise, both cortical and subcortical regions show damage. Finally, people with suppressed viral loads and those who remain abstinent show better cognitive performance. Conclusions. Cocaine has negative effects on the cognitive functioning of people with HIV, so treating this addiction and achieving adherence to antiretroviral treatment can reduce deficits © (2026), (Instituto de Investigacion de Drogodependencias). All rights reserved.

Instituciones: Universidad Privada del Norte