Reduction in Cerebral Perfusion after Heroin Administration: A Resting State Arterial Spin Labeling Study
PLoS ONE September 10, 2013 Niklaus Denier, Hana Gerber, Marc Vogel et al. 32 citations
In 15 heroin-dependent patients receiving stable heroin-assisted treatment, heroin reduced blood flow in the left anterior cingulate cortex, left medial prefrontal cortex, and insula compared to placebo. These brain areas are involved in self-regulation and emotional processing. The findings suggest that heroin's effects on these regions may contribute to its ability to reduce craving and produce relaxation in maintenance therapy.