Can memory and learning functions improve after prolonged abstinence from cocaine?

[ABC233]

I have quit using cocaine after 2 years of use 10 days ago when I first noticed memory, concentration, and analytical impairments while performing work functions on the job.  It was frustrating as my attention span became noticing impaired and I had to write down information from emails or assignments on a memo pad because of impairments in attention span and concentration.  In response to the panic, I started taking cdp choline and ginkgo to boost memory and concentration levels.  Thus far I haven't seen any improvements until an hour ago when I opened some files from work and was able to somewhat decipher and analyze the material.  Slight cognitive improvement but not there fully.  In addition to the memory boosters, I have been taking dlpa, 5htp, and l tyrosine to increase depleted dopamine and serotonin levels.  I don't know if it's placebo effect but today is the first time since I've felt stress and depression free since Ive noticed the impairments.  I would like to know if the combination of supplements I'm taking is safe and whether prolonged abstinence and exercise can help the brain reverse these impairments.  Is there nutrients, supplements, or proven medical treatment that can help quicken the recovery of these impairments?  I hope the damage is not permanent.  Please advise!

[ABC233]

Today has been a day of relief.  I was scared out of my mind last week when I first experienced severe memory, concentration, and learning impairments while working on the job.  I couldn't analyze simple emails or work functions that I would perform on a monthly basis.  I even thought of resigning as I hold a high level job that requires focus and constant analytical thinking.  I did a lot of research on the web and the research was very discouraging as all the reports state that damage can be permanent and that users experience significant learning and memory impairments even with continued abstinence.  This got me real depressed and worried as I was in fear of being brain dead an lose a once promising career.  In response to the panic and to help me complete work functions, I had went to the vitamin store to buy cdp choline and ginkgo to boost memory and concentration.  After a week of use and constantly underforming at work, I did not see any improvements.  I never gave up hope and continued to research on the causes of the learning and memory impairments among cocaine users.  The causes state damages to central nervous system and neurotransmitters vital to memory and learning.  In response I purchased l tyrosine, dlpa, 5 htp, and complex b to repair the damages caused by cocaine use.  I don't know if it's medically proven that these supplements can restore or repair the damage to the nervous system and neurotransmitters. Im not sure if it's an act of god but today i felt improvements in memory and concentration whereas last week I couldn't remember who emailed me even if I read the email a few minutes ago.  Attention span has improved.  Are these supplements that are restoring the impairments or does prolonged abstinence repair these functions?  Please advise

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there. Long term cocaine users can lose some of their ability to memorize and remember even simple issues and impair decision making abilities. Chronic abusers have dysfunction in areas of the brain involved in higher thought and decision making. The cause could be the damage to dopamine system in the brain and a high concentration of dopamine receptors in the brain regions involved in higher order decision making processes. It is good that you too memory boosters which enhance the depleted dopamine levels since this is logical. Consult a psychiatrist for more focused advice. Take care.