Research Reports: Methamphetamine Abuse and Addiction
- Letter from the Director
- What is methamphetamine?
- What is the scope of methamphetamine abuse in the United States?
- How is methamphetamine abused?
- How is methamphetamine different from other stimulants, such as cocaine?
- What are the immediate (short-term) effects of methamphetamine abuse?
- What are the long-term effects of methamphetamine abuse?
- What are the risks of methamphetamine abuse during pregnancy?
- Are methamphetamine abusers at risk for contracting HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and C?
- What treatments are effective for methamphetamine abusers?
- Where can I get further scientific information about methamphetamine abuse?
- Glossary
- References
What treatments are effective for methamphetamine abusers?
At this time, the most effective treatments for methamphetamine addiction are behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral and contingency management interventions. For example, the Matrix Model, a comprehensive behavioral treatment approach that combines behavioral therapy, family education, individual counseling, 12-Step support, drug testing, and encouragement for nondrug-related activities, has been shown to be effective in reducing methamphetamine abuse. Contingency management interventions, which provide tangible incentives in exchange for engaging in treatment and maintaining abstinence, have also been shown to be effective.
There are currently no specific medications that counteract the effects of methamphetamine or that prolong abstinence from and reduce the abuse of methamphetamine by an individual addicted to the drug. However, there are a number of medications that are FDA-approved for other illnesses that might also be useful in treating methamphetamine addiction. Recent study findings reveal that bupropion, the anti-depressant marketed as Wellbutrin, reduced the methamphetamine-induced "high" as well as drug cravings elicited by drug-related cues. This medication and others are currently in clinical trials, while new compounds are being developed and studied in preclinical models.
This page was last updated September 2006.
Research Reports
This series of reports simplifies the science of research findings for the educated lay public, legislators, educational groups, and practitioners. The series reports on research findings of national interest.
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