Abstract:  Impulsivity is a multidimensional concept, which is generally defined as lack of foresight or consideration and judgment of actions. There is a double relationship between impulsivity and substance abuse, namely that trait impulsivity is an important risk factor for substance abuse and addiction, and the individual impulsivity could be damaged by abusing the addictive substances. The relationship between impulsivity and substance abuse, as well as its underlying neural mechanisms will be discussed in this review. Reorganization of previous research literatures on the trait-like impulsivity, or its alteration caused by substance abuse, and understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms implicated in this process, not only help us reveal the nature of occurrence, development and recurrence of substance abuse after abstinence, but also help us explore the behavioral intervention means other than drug therapies.

Key words: substance abuse and addiction, decisional impulsivity, motor impulsivity