Psychostimulants and the cerebellum: Does the cerebellum get involved in the abuse of methamphetamine and cocaine?

Abstract

Clinical evidence suggests that the cerebellum is one of the brain areas most vulnerable to the effects of psychostimulants. Functional neuroimaging studies support the idea that the cerebellum is involved in the neural circuits affected by these drugs. The cerebellum plays a vital role in the brain's reward mechanisms, working in conjunction with the striatum, ventral tegmental area (VTA), and prefrontal cortex (PFC). The cerebellum plays a crucial role in processing rewards and associated emotions. Research indicates that the cerebellum serves as a central hub for regional disconnection during different mood states. This suggests that mental disorders, including mood disorders and substance use disorders, are linked to the circuitry of the cerebellum. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the brain regions affected by methamphetamine (METH) and cocaine, compiling both clinical and animal evidence regarding the involvement of the cerebellum in the abuse of these drugs. We analyze the effects of METH and cocaine on the cerebellum, detailing the resulting changes in various areas, including imaging, molecular, structural, and functional alterations. By exploring the cerebellum's role in the abuse of METH and cocaine, we can improve our understanding of the underlying mechanisms associated with these substances.