Date of Award
12-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc)
First Advisor
Jason Brumitt
Abstract
Methamphetamine (MA) is a derivative of amphetamine that is highly addictive and toxic. It is classified as a Schedule II stimulant under the Controlled Substances Act and has limited medical use for treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and high potential for abuse as a recreational drug. Prior to the 2000s, methamphetamine was derived from ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient in cold medicine, which became controlled in 2005 to combat the methamphetamine epidemic. Current methamphetamine is derived from phenyl-2-propanone, a chemical whose use is regulated for other uses, such as racing fuel, gold mining, perfume, and photography, fundamentally changing the chemical composition and ability to manufacture the drug. Methamphetamine abuse is a worldwide issue, with an estimated 33 million users in 2016. Methamphetamine abuse results in desired short-term effects of increased energy, decreased appetite, and euphoria, but can lead to long term damage of the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys and often leads to infections like HIV and hepatitis, psychiatric disturbances, and severe psychological dependence.
The current standard of treatment for methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) is a combination of medical interventions for acute intoxication, followed by behavioral intervention. Acute intoxication is treated with supportive measures, like sedation with benzodiazepines, and for some, acute inpatient detoxification may be necessary. Unlike other substances, there are no FDA-approved pharmacotherapeutic treatments for MUD, although there have been some preliminary studies on the use of low-dose stimulants as replacement therapy. Additional studies are examining the potential benefits of antidepressants and other psychopharmacological agents on methamphetamine remission, including mirtazapine (Remeron), bupropion (Wellbutrin), and naltrexone (Vivitrol). Behavioral treatment programs are only moderately effective for reducing methamphetamine use.
Recommended Citation
Skutt, Sydney, "The Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Reducing Drug Craving and Preventing Recurrence of Methamphetamine Use Disorder" (2024). Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc). 39.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/dmsc/39