Rehabilitation implications of new tDCS, aerobic exercise, and impulsivity in drug addiction and drug use disorders

Abstract

Addictions and substance use disorders are among the most prevalent mental health disorders attributable globally to higher rates of death per year. Despite multiple available treatment approaches to treat addiction, including pharmacological, psycho-education, 12-Step program, cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and even mindfulness based therapies, at least 60% of individuals with SUD are likely to relapse within one year post treatment, suggesting a need for innovative approaches to treatment. Craving and Impulsivity are considered hallmarks of addiction, thus targeting these features should be primary concern in developing treatment program. The aim of this paper was to examine the available research on the feasibility of a novel neuromodulation technique, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and physical exercise in reducing craving and impulsivity in drug dependent patients. My review has shown that physical exercise, in the form of a structured aerobic exercise and non-invasive modulation technique (tDCS) represent a potentially useful, cost free, easy employed intervention strategies for individuals with drug dependence. Neurobiological and molecular mechanisms of action of tDCS and exercise could possibly mediate the beneficial effects on craving and impulsivity.