Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
The 5th Regional International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT) Meeting in Türkiye, Diyarbakır, Türkiye, 9 - 11 Ekim 2024, ss.51, (Özet Bildiri)
Introduction: Many studies have elucidated the adverse effects of certain substances, classified as environmental pollutants, which have become increasingly ubiquitous in nature over the years, on the human hormonal system. Nevertheless, in light of the recent surge in substance use, certain studies have shifted their focus towards the repercussions of substance abuse on hormonal regulation. Moreover, it has been underscored that this impact varies across genders. The development of addiction in women typically occurs at earlier ages compared to men, while simultaneously rendering them more vulnerable than men in aspects such as relapse and withdrawal. Studies have attempted to elucidate this phenomenon through the interaction of ovarian hormones with the brain's reward pathway. Besides endogenously produced hormones, synthetic hormones administered into the body for diverse reasons may contribute to the heightened susceptibility of women to addiction compared to men. Although the literature acknowledges the potential for both endogenously produced and exogenously administered hormones to interact with the neural system and potentially disrupt behavior regulation, the limited number of studies in this area underscores the need for further research to gain a deeper understanding of this domain. Moreover, it is recognized that hormones such as oxytocin, vasopressin, hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and sex hormones contribute to the development of addiction. Additionally, substance use is acknowledged to induce hormonal imbalances. The entry of alcohol, drugs, and nicotine into the body can lead to significant damage in the cellular structure of neuronal and hormonal organs, resulting in endocrine dysfunctions and toxicities. This study will discuss the role of hormones in the development of addiction and how substance use also impacts the endocrine system. Method: This review study accessed articles from databases like PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and BMC Psychiatry using keywords such as “substance use,” “addiction,” “hormones,” and “neuroendocrine.” Articles from 2013 to 2024 in English and Turkish, including research, reviews, and meta-analyses on substance use and hormones, were included. Articles included were those examining the relationship between substance use and hormonal changes, experimental studies on humans or animals, with accessible full texts, written in English or Turkish. Exclusion criteria included articles with only abstracts, non-research publications (e.g., letters, conference abstracts, posters), and duplicate publications or studies repeating data from previously published research. Two independent researchers reviewed and deemed the selected articles eligible. Data were summarized descriptively, examining potential relationships between hormone level changes and substance use. Conclusion: The impact of the endocrine system and hormonal changes on addiction and substance use is clear, but more experimental evidence is needed. Future research in this area may enhance clinical practice and personalized treatments, offering new strategies for combating addiction. This study aims to guide researchers and clinicians. Keywords: Addiction, Substance use, Endocrine system, Hormones