Substance Use Disorder and Cognitive Impairment.

(1) Substance use disorder (SUD) is a global issue, which affects people for their physical and mental health. However, it remains unclear about how SUD is associated with cognitive impairment. (2) A literature search was performed across PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using keywords: cognitive impairment, cognitive dysfunction/prevention and control, behavior, addictive/prevention and control, substance use disorder, addictive/rehabilitation, and recovery. Data from 20 original research studies were extracted to analyze how SUD is associated with cognitive functions. (3) All substances, including tobacco, are associated with a measured decrease in cognitive function in at least one domain. The longer the duration of substance use, especially if multiple substances were used concurrently, the worse the cognitive performance. Abstinence, targeted medication, or cognitive remediation therapy can be used to treat SUD and associated cognitive impairments. (4) Cognitive function should be a focus for rehabilitation programs. For people with SUD, cognitive impairments may hinder them from seeking available treatment options. On the other hand, improved cognitive function may increase the possibility of successful rehabilitation for people with SUD.