-
Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic... 2023One of the critical factors affecting chronic diseases is the use of drugs, especially industrial substances, such as methamphetamine. Methamphetamine use is... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
One of the critical factors affecting chronic diseases is the use of drugs, especially industrial substances, such as methamphetamine. Methamphetamine use is increasingly common among the younger members of society. Methamphetamine is not only physically and mentally destructive, but also has a significant impact on the families of abusers and society, and imposes a financial burden on society. The present study aims to identify the factors affecting methamphetamine use in a scoping review.
METHODS
Different keywords of methamphetamine were selected in the Mesh database and were searched in valid English databases from January 1, 2008, to April 5, 2022. Inclusion and exclusion criteria in this study were languages, reported findings, time range, and type of article. This study was designed by scoping review method developed by Askey Malley'O.
RESULTS
The total articles that were finally analyzed in this article were 42 including 12 English articles and 30 Persian articles. Among these articles, the most important factors affecting Methamphetamine are individual, social, and family factors, which have received the most cited.
CONCLUSION
The majority of research highlights the importance of individual factors, society, and family factors, respectively, while formulating policies for prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation must be considered. It is suggested that structural path analysis be determined by prioritizing the identified factors and the weights of these components.
PubMed: 38021387
DOI: 10.47176/mjiri.37.102 -
Frontiers in Psychiatry 2023
PubMed: 37559919
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1252507 -
Viruses Aug 2023We read with great interest the article by Rogers et al. (2023), , published in [...].
We read with great interest the article by Rogers et al. (2023), , published in [...].
Topics: Cannabis; Methamphetamine; HIV Infections
PubMed: 37632096
DOI: 10.3390/v15081753 -
International Journal of Molecular... Oct 2023Schizophrenia is one of the most serious psychiatric disorders and is characterized by reductions in both brain volume and spine density in the frontal cortex. RhoA... (Review)
Review
Schizophrenia is one of the most serious psychiatric disorders and is characterized by reductions in both brain volume and spine density in the frontal cortex. RhoA belongs to the RAS homolog (Rho) family and plays critical roles in neuronal development and structural plasticity via Rho-kinase. RhoA activity is regulated by GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) and guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). Several variants in GAPs and GEFs associated with RhoA have been reported to be significantly associated with schizophrenia. Moreover, several mouse models carrying schizophrenia-associated gene variants involved in RhoA/Rho-kinase signaling have been developed. In this review, we summarize clinical evidence showing that variants in genes regulating RhoA activity are associated with schizophrenia. In the last half of the review, we discuss preclinical evidence indicating that RhoA/Rho-kinase is a potential therapeutic target of schizophrenia. In particular, Rho-kinase inhibitors exhibit anti-psychotic-like effects not only in S490P/NHEJ mice, but also in pharmacologic models of schizophrenia (methamphetamine- and MK-801-treated mice). Accordingly, we propose that Rho-kinase inhibitors may have antipsychotic effects and reduce cognitive deficits in schizophrenia despite the presence or absence of genetic variants in small GTPase signaling pathways.
Topics: Humans; Mice; Animals; rho-Associated Kinases; Monomeric GTP-Binding Proteins; Schizophrenia; Signal Transduction; rhoA GTP-Binding Protein; GTPase-Activating Proteins; Genomics
PubMed: 37958606
DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115623 -
Forensic Science International Oct 2023Manufacture and recreational use of methamphetamine can result in widespread chemical contamination throughout a property. Hydrogen peroxide (HO)-based cleaning products...
Manufacture and recreational use of methamphetamine can result in widespread chemical contamination throughout a property. Hydrogen peroxide (HO)-based cleaning products have shown success against a number of chemical contaminants including agents of chemical warfare, and biological contaminants such as anthrax. They are considered to be environmentally friendly and economically viable and, as such, are used by many companies within the methamphetamine decontamination industry. The oxidative decontamination of methamphetamine and ephedrine hydrochloride was investigated in this current study, employing a commercially available HO-based decontamination product, Bio-Oxygen® Chem Decon. Methamphetamine and ephedrine were observed to degrade following pseudo-first order kinetics of (1.9 ± 0.4) × 10 min and (2.2 ± 0.3) × 10 min, respectively. Major oxidation products identified through GC-MS analyses were phenylacetone oxime (from methamphetamine) and benzaldehyde (from ephedrine). LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of a number of N-oxygenated intermediates which allowed for the elucidation of an N-oxidation decomposition pathway reminiscent of flavin-containing monooxygenase enzymes. Using this information, further targeted research can be performed to understand the behaviour and persistence of these reaction products and accurate assessments can be achieved to estimate their impact on the exposure risks associated with chemical decontamination of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS).
Topics: Ephedrine; Methamphetamine; Peroxides; Hydrogen Peroxide; Decontamination
PubMed: 37690396
DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111816 -
Frontiers in Psychiatry 2023Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was originally treated as a neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs mainly in children and tends to diminish or disappear...
INTRODUCTION
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was originally treated as a neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs mainly in children and tends to diminish or disappear with age, but we now know that symptoms persist into adulthood in over 50% of ADHD patients. Undiagnosed individuals often turn to psychoactive substance to minimize the negative aspects of functioning and improve quality of life.
METHODS
The study was conducted online using random sampling through a Facebook group administered by physicians and targeted to patients diagnosed with ADHD. The study was naturalistic and exploratory, therefore no hypothesis was made. 438 correctly completed questionnaires were received. Analysis of the results showed that people with ADHD turn to psychoactive substances relatively frequently.
RESULTS
The most commonly used stimulants include alcohol, marijuana, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), amphetamine/methamphetamine, and psilocybin. In the study population, methylphenidate is the most commonly used drug among patients. After treatment with psychostimulants, the majority of respondents note a decrease in symptoms of hyperactivity disorder, especially in male patients.
CONCLUSION
It is necessary to perform proper diagnostics and actively look for ADHD symptoms in patients who tend to use psychoactive substances.
PubMed: 37496681
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1184023 -
ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science Jul 2023Methamphetamine exists as two stereoisomers: -(+)-methamphetamine ((+)-MAMP) and -(-)-methamphetamine ((-)-MAMP). The (+)-MAMP stereoisomer is a well-known central... (Review)
Review
Methamphetamine exists as two stereoisomers: -(+)-methamphetamine ((+)-MAMP) and -(-)-methamphetamine ((-)-MAMP). The (+)-MAMP stereoisomer is a well-known central nervous system stimulant, available as a pharmaceutical and clandestine drug of abuse. However, the (-)-MAMP stereoisomer is less well understood despite commercial availability for over 30 years as an over-the-counter (OTC) nasal decongestant in the Vicks Vapor Inhaler (a product of Procter & Gamble). Recently, several generic versions have become available, decreasing the cost and increasing the availability of (-)-MAMP-containing nasal sprays to consumers. Despite widespread commercial availability and use in the United States, a paucity of literature exists on the pharmacology of (-)-MAMP in humans. This knowledge gap is problematic, given the difficulty in separating (-)-MAMP and (+)-MAMP isomers in laboratory assays for workplace drug testing, suspected impaired drivers, post-mortem investigations, and assessment of drug involvement in crimes. In response, this systematic review of the literature coalesces and summarizes available knowledge of (-)-MAMP pharmacology in humans. It was found that available knowledge relies heavily on urine drug and metabolite concentrations, systematic pharmacokinetics studies are lacking, and existing knowledge has been derived from a total of 99 unique participants. The impacts of highlighted gaps in the literature are discussed, focusing on forensic toxicology and law enforcement, and future research directions are suggested.
PubMed: 37470013
DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00019 -
Addictive Behaviors Jun 2024Anxiety and depression are prevalent mental health problems in people who use illicit stimulants. Improved understanding of the temporal relationship between... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
Anxiety and depression are prevalent mental health problems in people who use illicit stimulants. Improved understanding of the temporal relationship between methamphetamine, ecstasy/MDMA, or cocaine use with anxiety or depression informs public health interventions and treatment options for those experiencing this co-occurrence. This narrative systematic review sought to examine associations and temporality between the use of methamphetamine, ecstasy/MDMA, or cocaine, with anxiety or depressive symptoms. Method Systematic searches of 4 electronic databases were conducted up to August 2023. Study eligibility included the measurement of anxiety and/or depressive symptoms, and frequency of illicit stimulant use (methamphetamine, cocaine, or ecstasy/MDMA) at two separate time points, with data analysis of the association between these variables. The Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Checklist was utilised to assess quality. Data was extracted, and a narrative synthesis incorporating an eight-criteria framework to assess associations was conducted. Results 4432 studies were screened for eligibility; 11 studies (3 RCTs and 8 prospective cohort studies) were included. Evidence for an association between depressive symptoms and methamphetamine use was demonstrated in six studies, with temporal evidence in three studies supporting methamphetamine use preceding depressive symptoms. Three studies reported an association between cocaine use and depressive symptoms. Evidence for associations with any of the illicit stimulants and anxiety symptoms was lacking.
CONCLUSIONS
There was some evidence to support a case for temporality, particularly for methamphetamine use and depressive symptoms. Investing in longitudinal studies is pivotal to understanding the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between illicit stimulant use and anxiety or depressive symptoms. A limitation of the study was the variation in the measurement and analysis of outcomes.
Topics: Humans; N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine; Methamphetamine; Depression; Prospective Studies; Anxiety; Cocaine; Central Nervous System Stimulants; Cocaine-Related Disorders
PubMed: 38394960
DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.107988 -
Addiction Science & Clinical Practice Aug 2023We examined acceptability of and preferences for potential medications for treating methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) among people who use methamphetamine and examined...
INTRODUCTION
We examined acceptability of and preferences for potential medications for treating methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) among people who use methamphetamine and examined how benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use affect perceived acceptability and preferences.
METHODS
We conducted qualitative interviews as part of a larger study in 2019-2020. The interview assessed patterns of substance use (including methamphetamine), benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use, and interest in a medication to treat MUD. Analysis used an inductive thematic approach, guided by three primary questions: (1) would participants be interested in taking a potential medication for MUD?; (2) what effects would they would like from such a medication?; and (3) what would their ideal treatment route and schedule be (e.g. daily pill, monthly injection)?.
RESULTS
We interviewed 20 people reporting methamphetamine use in the past 3 months (10 from Reno, Nevada, USA and 10 from Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, USA). Seven used exclusively methamphetamine, while thirteen used other substances in addition to methamphetamine. Most were enthusiastic about a potential medication to treat MUD. Of those who were not interested (n = 5), all indicated no current concerns about their methamphetamine use. Perceived functional benefits of methamphetamine use (i.e., energy, counteracting opioid sedation, and improved social and emotional wellbeing) informed preferences for a replacement-type medication that would confer the same benefits while mitigating drawbacks (e.g., psychosis, hallucinations, withdrawal). Opinions on preferred dosing varied, with some preferring longer acting medications for convenience, while others preferred daily dosing that would align with existing routines.
CONCLUSION
Participants were excited about a potential for a medication to treat MUD. Their preferences were informed by the functional role of methamphetamine in their lives and a desire to maintain the stimulant effects while mitigating harms of illicit methamphetamine. Treatment outcomes that emphasize functioning and wellbeing, rather than abstinence, should be explored.
Topics: Humans; Methamphetamine; Qualitative Research; Analgesics, Opioid; Emotions
PubMed: 37587515
DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00401-1 -
Pharmacological Research Aug 2023Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and cognitive deficits. Current antipsychotic treatment in...
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and cognitive deficits. Current antipsychotic treatment in SCZ improves positive symptoms but has major side effects and little impact on negative symptoms and cognitive impairment. The pathoetiology of SCZ remains unclear, but is known to involve small GTPase signaling. Rho kinase, an effector of small GTPase Rho, is highly expressed in the brain and plays a major role in neurite elongation and neuronal architecture. This study used a touchscreen-based visual discrimination (VD) task to investigate the effects of Rho kinase inhibitors on cognitive impairment in a methamphetamine (METH)-treated male mouse model of SCZ. Systemic injection of the Rho kinase inhibitor fasudil dose-dependently ameliorated METH-induced VD impairment. Fasudil also significantly suppressed the increase in the number of c-Fos-positive cells in the infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex (infralimbic mPFC) and dorsomedial striatum (DMS) following METH treatment. Bilateral microinjections of Y-27632, another Rho kinase inhibitor, into the infralimbic mPFC or DMS significantly ameliorated METH-induced VD impairment. Two proteins downstream of Rho kinase, myosin phosphatase-targeting subunit 1 (MYPT1; Thr696) and myosin light chain kinase 2 (MLC2; Thr18/Ser19), exhibited increased phosphorylation in the infralimbic mPFC and DMS, respectively, after METH treatment, and fasudil inhibited these increases. Oral administration of haloperidol and fasudil ameliorated METH-induced VD impairment, while clozapine had little effect. Oral administration of haloperidol and clozapine suppressed METH-induced hyperactivity, but fasudil had no effect. These results suggest that METH activates Rho kinase in the infralimbic mPFC and DMS, which leads to cognitive impairment in male mice. Rho kinase inhibitors ameliorate METH-induced cognitive impairment, perhaps via the cortico-striatal circuit.
Topics: Animals; Male; Mice; Clozapine; Cognitive Dysfunction; Haloperidol; Methamphetamine; Monomeric GTP-Binding Proteins; rho-Associated Kinases; Schizophrenia; Protein Kinase Inhibitors
PubMed: 37390993
DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106838