Current and Emerging Treatments for Methamphetamine Use Disorder

Abstract

: Almost two decades have passed since the last methamphetamine (METH) abuse epidemic. In recent years, METH abuse in the US has been rapidly increasing and is currently one of the leading causes of death in our country. Available statistical data indicates re-emergence of METH popularity and suggest an impending third epidemic of METH abuse. Alarmingly, there is no FDA- approved medication for METH use disorder (MUD). This disorder is currently treated with behavioral therapies; however, these therapies have limitations and would benefit from the addition of a MUD pharmacotherapy. Unfortunately, clinical trials have not yet found consistently effective pharmacotherapy for MUD. This review outlines the history of METH use, provides information on current prevalence of METH abuse and MUD, describes medications that have been in clinical trials for MUD, and addresses current as well as potential new treatments for MUD.

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

“…Past research in rodents showed active immunization using conjugated vaccines can reduce the physiological and behavioral effects of methamphetamine [3,10,[12][13][14][15]58,68]. IXTv-100 GLA-SE and TT-SMA with alum and adjuvant E6020 were safe, had an affinity for the drug, and produced an immune response [13,[59][60][61][62].…”

Challenges and insights: Methamphetamine analysis in post-mortem putrefied human tissues in a hot climate

“…In the early 20th century, meth was derived from its precursor drug, amphetamine, and initially was used as nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers ( Vearrier et al, 2012 ). Meth use has been rapidly increasing, attributed to the relatively simple and low-cost manufacturing process ( Moszczynska, 2021 ). Global estimates suggest that more than 35 million people use meth and its analogs worldwide ( Richards and Laurin, 2023 ).…”

Methamphetamine Use Disorder and Inflammation: A Case-Control Study

“…The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth Edition (DSM-5) defines substance-related and addictive disorders in two sub-categories: substance use disorders (SUD) and substance-induced disorders. SUD is a chronic and recurrent disorder characterized by increased intake of legal and illicit drugs despite adverse consequences [ 1 , 2 ]. Methamphetamine is a potent central nervous system psychostimulant that affects the brain’s neurotransmitter system.…”

“…Methamphetamine is a potent central nervous system psychostimulant that affects the brain’s neurotransmitter system. It is highly addictive and neurotoxic to the central nervous system [ 2 , 3 ]. Methamphetamine, also known as “ice” or “crystal,” has seen a steady increase in abuse in recent years, with more than 33 million people worldwide [ 3 ].…”