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The brain's wonder drug: How does methamphetamine change our ability to focus?
Methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant approved by the US FDA, specifically used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. This drug can not only be taken orally but also absorbed through the skin, and its different dosage forms such as immediate-release and delayed-release have different sustained effects. In terms of the therapeutic effect of methamphetamine on ADHD, its effectiveness is similar to that of atomoxetine, but slightly inferior to that of amphetamines. Research suggests that methamphetamine can alleviate deficits in attention, inhibition, working memory, reaction time, and emotional self-regulation.
Common side effects include euphoria, pupil dilation, increased heart rate, insomnia, anxiety and loss of appetite.
Methamphetamine is thought to work by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine into neurons, increasing the concentration of these neurotransmitters in synapses. According to statistics, in 2022, methamphetamine was the 32nd most commonly prescribed drug in the United States, with more than 17 million prescriptions issued throughout the year.
When treating ADHD, dosage may vary and is usually tailored to the individual patient's condition. The World Health Organization's international consensus statement on ADHD points out that methamphetamine is safe in treatment and has significant effects on reducing accidental injuries and reducing mental health problems. Despite this, in 2019 the WHO rejected its application to include it in the list of essential medicines, but in 2023 it issued a clear recommendation supporting its use in children with ADHD aged six years and older.
Treatment of narcolepsyAs ADHD diagnosis rates rise, methamphetamine is being misused as a "study drug" by some people, which may lead to health hazards.
Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and uncontrollable sleep. Methamphetamine use can enhance alertness and concentration, although performance on some standard tests may not reach the levels of healthy people.
Other medical applications
In addition to the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy, methamphetamine is used in a number of other conditions, such as combating depression and as an adjunct to treatment-resistant bipolar disorder. Methamphetamine has also shown potential to improve depression in some cancer patients and HIV-positive patients.
Performance Improvement and Risk of Abuse
Research shows that methamphetamine is effective in improving athletic performance and enhancing cognition. However, if used in high doses or other routes, it may cause serious adverse reactions. For some students, the main reason for using the drug is to improve their performance in studies or exams, not for recreational purposes.
However, research suggests that when medications are misused, especially in the absence of an ADHD diagnosis, they often fail to actually improve academic achievement.
Side effects and risk of dependence
Common side effects of methamphetamine include decreased appetite, dry mouth, anxiety and insomnia, and cardiovascular effects also need to be closely monitored. For some people who already have a psychotic illness, this medication may make it worse. In addition, due to its certain dependence, especially when used in high doses, it may cause psychological dependence in the user.
Overall, although methamphetamine performs well in the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy, its potential for abuse and side effects have to attract the attention of society. As the number of people using this drug increases, how should its medical use be balanced against the risk of abuse?
