Side Effects of methamphetamine: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Methamphetamine has been found to have detrimental effects on memory and learning in rats. 24 . Buprenorphine, an opioid drug, also negatively impacts memory and learning, however, it has shown beneficial effects on aversive memory and demonstrates fewer side effects than other opioid drugs, potentially making it a suitable treatment option for avoidance memory deficits in individuals with methamphetamine addiction. 24 . Topiramate, an anticonvulsant medication, has demonstrated potential efficacy in reducing the desire to use amphetamines and methamphetamine, although further studies are required to confirm these results. 2 . Research has also highlighted the complexities and challenges faced by emergency responders dealing with individuals affected by methamphetamine, including increased levels of violence, communication difficulties, and responder distress. 16 . Additionally, the study found a significant increase in fentanyl-related deaths, often in combination with methamphetamine, indicating a growing public health concern. 5 .

Reasons for side effects

Methamphetamine causes a range of side effects due to its impact on neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine. It triggers excessive dopamine release, leading to addiction and mental dependence. 7 . Additionally, methamphetamine influences serotonin and norepinephrine levels, potentially contributing to mental health issues like anxiety, panic attacks, and hallucinations. 1 . It can also lead to cardiovascular problems, respiratory issues, and cognitive impairments. 7 15 .

Common side effects

Mental side effects

Methamphetamine use can lead to mental dependence, hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. 1 . It can also contribute to the development of psychosis, with symptoms such as paranoia and delusions of grandeur. 1 .

Physical side effects

Methamphetamine can cause serious physical health issues such as heart disease, stroke, respiratory failure, weight loss, tooth decay, and skin damage. 7 In severe cases, methamphetamine use can lead to death. 5 .

Other side effects

Methamphetamine can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. 1 . It can also impair cognitive function, leading to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and reduced decision-making abilities. 15 Long-term use can lead to significant cognitive decline. 8 .

Measures to counteract side effects

Mental side effects

For mental side effects, professional treatment from a medical professional is crucial. This might include medication, therapy, and counseling. 8 . Support groups and social support networks can also play a significant role in recovery. 8 .

Physical side effects

To prevent physical side effects, a healthy lifestyle is essential, including a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise. 7 . Regular medical checkups are vital for early detection and treatment of potential health complications. 7 .

Other side effects

Discontinuing methamphetamine use is crucial for reducing other side effects. This can allow the immune system to recover and improve cognitive function. 1 .

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities Between Studies

Numerous studies consistently highlight the detrimental effects of methamphetamine on various aspects of health, including mental and physical well-being, as well as cognitive function. 24 7 1 .

Differences Between Studies

While studies agree on the negative consequences of methamphetamine, they vary in the specific side effects observed, their severity, and the timing of their appearance. 24 15 1 . These differences are likely influenced by factors such as the amount and duration of drug use, individual susceptibility, and the presence of other substances. 15 .

Cautions for Applying to Real Life

Methamphetamine is a highly dangerous drug with severe consequences. It is crucial to avoid using methamphetamine. 15 It is highly addictive and can lead to serious, long-lasting health problems. 15 . If you or someone you know is struggling with methamphetamine use, seek immediate professional help. 8 .

Limitations of Current Research

The research on methamphetamine's side effects is ongoing and needs further investigation. Long-term effects and individual variations in susceptibility require more extensive study. 15 . Research is also needed to fully understand the impact on brain structure and function, the immune system, and the potential for long-term cognitive decline. 1

Future Research Directions

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of methamphetamine's side effects, future research needs to focus on: long-term effects, individual variations, the impact on brain structure and function, and the effects on the immune system. 15 1 . Further research into potential treatment options, such as vaccines, is crucial to combat the growing epidemic of methamphetamine use. 3 .

Conclusion

Methamphetamine is a harmful and dangerous drug that can lead to severe mental and physical health problems, cognitive impairment, and even death. 15 1 . If you or someone you know is struggling with methamphetamine use, seeking professional help is vital. Remember, there is hope for recovery, and support is available. 8 .

Literature analysis of 25 papers
Positive Content
14
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
10
Article Type
0
0
1
9
25
3.

The Neurobiology of Methamphetamine Addiction and the Potential to Reduce Misuse Through Conjugate Vaccines Targeting Toll-Like Receptor 4.

Author: PrasadSavita, MathewPhoebe S, PiperBrian J, KaurKarndeep, TianMaria

Decrease drug-seeking behavior
Improve withdrawal symptoms
Minimal health side effects

Methamphetamine addiction is a significant public health concern. This paper reviews the neurobiology of methamphetamine addiction and drug-seeking behaviors, examining the potential of vaccinations in addressing this epidemic.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

4.

Rho kinase inhibitors ameliorate cognitive impairment in a male mouse model of methamphetamine-induced schizophrenia.

Author: LiaoJingzhu, DongGeyao, ZhuWenjun, WulaerBolati, MizoguchiHiroyuki, SawahataMasahito, LiuYue, KaibuchiKozo, OzakiNorio, NabeshimaToshitaka, NagaiTaku, YamadaKiyofumi

Cognitive impairment amelioration
Rho kinase inhibitor efficacy

Rho kinase inhibitors, such as fasudil, were found to improve cognitive impairment in a methamphetamine (METH)-treated mouse model of schizophrenia. The results suggest that Rho kinase plays a role in cognitive impairment and that inhibiting it may be a potential treatment strategy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Methamphetamine-induced encephalopathy in the absence of hyperammonemia.

Author: RabbanyJessica M, FitzgeraldKaylee, BowmanJade, DongFanglong, NeekiMichael M

Methamphetamine-induced encephalopathy

Methamphetamine use can lead to encephalopathy, a condition that presents a clinical challenge. While hyperammonemia is often implicated, this study explored cases of methamphetamine-induced encephalopathy without hyperammonemia.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

7.

Methamphetamine: Mechanism of Action and Chinese Herbal Medicine Treatment for Its Addiction.

Author: ZengRui, PuHong-Yu, ZhangXin-Yue, YaoMeng-Lin, SunQin

METH addiction treatment

Chinese herbal medicines have gained attention for their potential in treating methamphetamine addiction due to their non-addictive nature, multiple targets, low side effects, and affordability. This article reviews the mechanism of action of methamphetamine and summarizes the evidence for Chinese herbal medicine-based treatment approaches.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

8.

Tryptophan and Substance Abuse: Mechanisms and Impact.

Author: DavidsonMajid, RashidiNiloufar, HossainMd Kamal, RazaAli, NurgaliKulmira, ApostolopoulosVasso

Addiction treatment
Addiction complications

Addiction, the persistent misuse of addictive substances, affects the brain's reward system, memory, and motivation. It can lead to serious health problems including cardiovascular disease and infection. While there is currently no cure for drug addiction, new treatment approaches are showing promise. Tryptophan, an amino acid, is being investigated for its potential to reduce the negative side effects of addiction.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

11.

Specific Inhibition of Interpeduncular Nucleus GABAergic Neurons Alleviates Anxiety-Like Behaviors in Male Mice after Prolonged Abstinence from Methamphetamine.

Author: XuXing, LiNanqin, WenJun, YangPing, LuXue, WangZilin, HeTeng, FanYu, XuBo, GeFeifei, GuanXiaowei

Reduced anxiety
Depression

Prolonged abstinence from methamphetamine (METH) can lead to increased anxiety-like behaviors in mice, linked to increased excitability of GABAergic neurons in the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN). Specific inhibition of IPN GABAergic neurons reduced anxiety-like behaviors in mice after prolonged METH abstinence, suggesting a promising target for alleviating withdrawal symptoms.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

12.

Is Deep Brain Stimulation an Effective Treatment for Psychostimulant Dependency? A Preclinical and Clinical Systematic Review.

Author: EskandariKiarash, FattahiMojdeh, YazdanianHassan, HaghparastAbbas

Psychostimulant addiction treatment

This review explores the potential of deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a treatment for psychostimulant addiction, analyzing its effects in human and animal models. DBS has shown promise in reducing relapse and drug cravings, but further research is needed to optimize stimulation parameters and develop less invasive methods.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

13.

GIRK Channels as Candidate Targets for the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders.

Author: Kotajima-MurakamiHiroko, IdeSoichiro, IkedaKazutaka

Potential SUD treatment

Substance use disorders are chronic conditions that affect brain function. This review explores the potential of G-protein-activated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channel modulators as a treatment for addiction. Ifenprodil, a GIRK channel blocker, has shown promise in clinical trials for alcohol and methamphetamine use disorders.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

15.

N-isopropylbenzylamine, a methamphetamine mimics, produces toxicity via increasing nitric oxide in vitro.

Author: XuPeng, LiHaijie, QiuQiyang, XiaoXiao, QiuYi, LiXiangyu, WangYoumei, ZhouWenhua, ShenHaowei, CuiWei

N-isopropylbenzylamine toxicity
Neurotoxicity

N-isopropylbenzylamine, an isomer of methamphetamine, is a dangerous substance that is often used to adulterate methamphetamine. It can cause cell death in neurons by increasing nitric oxide levels. This finding highlights the risks associated with N-isopropylbenzylamine exposure.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

17.

Vaccines against Drug Abuse-Are We There Yet?

Author: BloomBenedict T, BushellMary-Jessimine

Potential drug abuse treatment
Limited effectiveness
Potential side effects

This review discusses the potential of immunotherapy, specifically vaccines, as a treatment for drug abuse. While current drug abuse treatments have limitations, including limited effectiveness and potential side effects, vaccine development is promising and a focus of ongoing research.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

18.

Identifying behaviours for survival and wellness among people who use methamphetamine with opioids in British Columbia: a qualitative study.

Author: CorserJenny, PalisHeather, FleuryMathew, LambJess, LockKurt, McDougallJenny, MehtaAmiti, NewmanCheri, SpenceHeather, BuxtonJane A

Methamphetamine/opioid use
Survival and wellness

This study identifies survival and wellness behaviors practiced by individuals who concurrently use methamphetamine and opioids in British Columbia, Canada. The authors highlight the concerning trend of rising methamphetamine and opioid use, posing an elevated risk of harm. The study aims to understand coping mechanisms and resilience strategies employed by this vulnerable population.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Goofballing of Opioid and Methamphetamine: The Science Behind the Deadly Cocktail.

Author: HazaniHanis Mohammad, Naina MohamedIsa, MuzaimiMustapha, MohamedWael, YahayaMohamad Fairuz, TeohSeong Lin, Pakri MohamedRashidi Mohamed, Mohamad IsaMohd Fadzli, AbdulrahmanSundus Mansoor, RamadahRavi, KamaluddinMohammad Rahim, KumarJaya

Polydrug abuse

This review discusses the behavioral, neuroanatomical, and neurochemical changes underlying morphine and methamphetamine dependence, both individually and in combination. The combined use of these drugs has more severe effects than either drug alone, highlighting the importance of addressing polydrug abuse in treatment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

20.

Oxytocin, a Novel Treatment for Methamphetamine Use Disorder.

Author: EdinoffAmber N, ThompsonElliot, MerrimanChandler E, AlvarezMark R, AlpaughE Saunders, CornettElyse M, MurnaneKevin S, KozinnRachel L, Shah-BruceMila, KayeAdam M, KayeAlan D

Methamphetamine addiction

This review examines the potential of oxytocin therapy (OT) for the treatment of methamphetamine addiction. The review discusses the neurobiological mechanisms of action of oxytocin and the promising results of preclinical studies in rodents suggesting that oxytocin may be beneficial for reducing withdrawal symptoms and alleviating drug dependence. The review calls for further research to evaluate the efficacy of oxytocin in treating methamphetamine addiction in humans.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

21.

Endocannabinoids and addiction memory: Relevance to methamphetamine/morphine abuse.

Author: AlizaminiMirmohammadali Mirramezani, LiYonghui, ZhangJian-Jun, LiangJing, HaghparastAbbas

Memory improvement

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in modulating memory impairments induced by methamphetamine (METH) and morphine. The ECS, including cannabinoid receptors and their endogenous lipid ligands, interacts with neurotransmitters like glutamate and dopamine to mitigate drug-induced memory damage. The amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex are key brain regions involved in both drug addiction and memory processes. These findings suggest that targeting the ECS could be a potential therapeutic strategy for treating the memory impairments associated with METH and morphine use.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

22.

Emergency department visits and trends related to cocaine, psychostimulants, and opioids in the United States, 2008-2018.

Author: SuenLeslie W, Davy-MendezThibaut, LeSaintKathy T, RileyElise D, CoffinPhillip O

Stimulant use

This study sought to characterize rates, presentation, and management of ED visits related to cocaine and psychostimulant use, compared to opioid use, in the United States (US).

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Research funding provided by US government agencies other than the Public Health Service.

Language : English

24.

Effects of Buprenorphine on the Memory and Learning Deficit Induced by Methamphetamine Administration in Male Rats.

Author: EtaeeFarshid, Rezvani-KamranArezoo, KomakiSomayeh, AsadbegiMasoumeh, FarajiNafiseh, RaoufiSafoura, TaheriMohammad, Kourosh-AramiMasoumeh, KomakiAlireza

Avoidance memory
Meth addiction treatment
Spatial memory impairment

This study examined the effects of methamphetamine (Meth) and buprenorphine (Bup) on memory and learning in rats. Buprenorphine was found to improve aversive memory while methamphetamine impaired spatial and aversive memory.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

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