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Forchuk C, Serrato J, Scott L, Rudnick A, Dickey C, Silverman M. "No Good Choice": What are the Issues of Having no Harm Reduction Strategies in Hospitals? Subst Abuse 2023; 17:11782218231186065. [PMID: 37476501 PMCID: PMC10354823 DOI: 10.1177/11782218231186065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Despite an increase in methamphetamine use and subsequent hospitalizations, the majority of Canadian hospitals currently lack harm reduction strategies for substance use. This can mean that people with lived experience of methamphetamine use are faced with a number of difficult decisions to make when admitted to hospital. Caring for people with lived experience of methamphetamine use can also be problematic with zero tolerance policies requiring abstinence to be maintained. This analysis set out to understand potential health care issues due to a lack of harm reduction strategies from the prospective of people with lived experience of methamphetamine use as well as health care/service professionals. Methods Based on a larger study, this secondary analysis explored issues discussed by people with lived experience of methamphetamine use and health care/service professionals regarding the challenges of providing harm reduction approaches in the hospital setting. A total of 108 individuals with lived experience of methamphetamine use completed a qualitative component of a mixed-method interview. In addition, 31 health care/service professionals participated in virtual focus groups and one-to-one interviews. Responses were analyzed using an ethnographic thematic approach. Results People with lived experience of methamphetamine use reported 3 choices upon admission: leave or avoid the hospital, stay but experience unsupported withdrawal, or stay but hide their substance usage from health care professionals. Health care/service professionals described 2 options: uphold zero tolerance that can lead to stigma and a lack of knowledge regarding addiction, or accept harm reduction but be unable to implement such strategies. This could lead to health being compromised due to policy and practice that requires abstinence. Neither group of participants described a good choice for them. Conclusion Current policy and education related to substance use needs to be revised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Forchuk
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | | | - Leanne Scott
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
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2
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Glac W, Dunacka J, Grembecka B, Świątek G, Majkutewicz I, Wrona D. Prolonged Peripheral Immunosuppressive Responses as Consequences of Random Amphetamine Treatment, Amphetamine Withdrawal and Subsequent Amphetamine Challenges in Rats. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2021; 16:870-887. [PMID: 33586062 PMCID: PMC8714631 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-021-09988-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Drug-induced immunosuppression may underline increased hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis response to stress observed following chronic psychostimulant treatment. However, the consequences of random amphetamine (AMPH) treatment, withdrawal and AMPH challenge after withdrawal on the peripheral immunity and systemic corticosterone response are unknown. In this study, the total blood and spleen leukocyte, lymphocyte, T, B, NK, TCD4+/TCD8+ cell numbers and ratio, pro-inflammatory interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and anti-inflammatory interleukin-4 (IL-4) production, and plasma corticosterone concentration in Wistar rats were investigated after: chronic, random AMPH/SAL treatment alone (20 injections in 60 days, 1 mg/kg b.w., i.p.), AMPH/SAL withdrawal (for 20 consecutive days after random AMPH/SAL exposure) or AMPH/SAL challenge after withdrawal (single injection after the AMPH/SAL withdrawal phase). The results showed blood and spleen leukopenia, lymphopenia, lower blood production of IFN-ɤ, and increased plasma corticosterone concentration after the AMPH treatment, which were more pronounced in the AMPH after withdrawal group. In contrast, an increased number of blood NK cells and production of IL-4 after chronic, random AMPH treatment alone, were found. Blood AMPH-induced leukopenia and lymphopenia were due to decreased total number of T, B lymphocytes and, at least in part, of granulocytes and monocytes. Moreover, decreases in the number of blood TCD4+ and TCD8+ lymphocytes both in the AMPH chronic alone and withdrawal phases, were found.The major findings of this study are that AMPH treatment after the long-term withdrawal from previous random AMPH exposure, accelerates the drug-induced immunosuppressive and systemic corticosterone responses, suggesting prolonged immunosuppressive effects and an increase in incidence of infectious diseases. Prolonged peripheral immunosuppressive responses as consequences of random amphetamine…The results indicate that the chronic and random AMPH exposure alone and the acute (single injection) challenge of the drug after the withdrawal phase induced long-term immunosuppressive effects, which were similar to those occurring during the stress response, and sensitized the peripheral immunosuppressive and corticosterone responses of the rat to the disinhibitory effects of this stressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Glac
- Department of Animal and Human Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, 59 Wita Stwosza Str, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Joanna Dunacka
- Department of Animal and Human Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, 59 Wita Stwosza Str, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Beata Grembecka
- Department of Animal and Human Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, 59 Wita Stwosza Str, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Świątek
- Department of Animal and Human Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, 59 Wita Stwosza Str, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Irena Majkutewicz
- Department of Animal and Human Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, 59 Wita Stwosza Str, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Danuta Wrona
- Department of Animal and Human Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, 59 Wita Stwosza Str, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland.
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3
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Pearson-Dennett V, Faulkner PL, Collie B, Wilcox RA, Vogel AP, Thewlis D, Esterman A, McDonnell MN, Gandevia SC, White JM, Todd G. Use of illicit amphetamines is associated with long-lasting changes in hand circuitry and control. Clin Neurophysiol 2019; 130:655-665. [PMID: 30870801 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aim was to determine if use of illicit amphetamines or ecstasy is associated with abnormal excitability of the corticomotoneuronal pathway and manipulation of novel objects with the hand. METHODS Three groups of adults aged 18-50 years were investigated: individuals with a history of illicit amphetamine use, individuals with a history of ecstasy use but minimal use of other stimulants, and non-drug users. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was delivered to the motor cortex and the electromyographic response (motor evoked potential; MEP) was recorded from a contralateral hand muscle. Participants also gripped and lifted a novel experimental object consisting of two strain gauges and an accelerometer. RESULTS Resting MEP amplitude was larger in the amphetamine group (6M, 6F) than the non-drug and ecstasy groups (p < 0.005) in males but not females. Overestimation of grip force during manipulation of a novel object was observed in the amphetamine group (p = 0.020) but not the ecstasy group. CONCLUSIONS History of illicit amphetamine use, in particular methamphetamine, is associated with abnormal motor cortical and/or corticomotoneuronal excitability in males and abnormal manipulation of novel objects in both males and females. SIGNIFICANCE Abnormal excitability and hand function is evident months to years after cessation of illicit amphetamine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verity Pearson-Dennett
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Patrick L Faulkner
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Brittany Collie
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Robert A Wilcox
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; Department of Neurology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Human Physiology, Medical School, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Adam P Vogel
- Centre for Neuroscience of Speech, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Neurodegeneration, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen 72076, Germany; Redenlab, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia.
| | - Dominic Thewlis
- Centre for Orthopaedic & Trauma Research, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
| | - Adrian Esterman
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Michelle N McDonnell
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Simon C Gandevia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, PO Box 1165, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia; Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Jason M White
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Gabrielle Todd
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
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4
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Chang X, Sun Y, Zhang Y, Muhai J, Lu L, Shi J. A Review of Risk Factors for Methamphetamine-Related Psychiatric Symptoms. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:603. [PMID: 30519197 PMCID: PMC6251327 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The illegal use of methamphetamine (MA) is a growing public health concern globally and results in a series of negative effects. The prominent detrimental effect of MA use is MA-related psychiatric symptoms (MAP) and is observed at a much higher incidence compared to the general population. MAP often includes multiple dimensions of cognitive impairment and induces adverse consequences such as, violence and suicide. However, the assessment methods for MAP are not standardized. Hence, it is necessary to investigate factors that affect the progression of psychiatric symptoms in individuals who use MA. A review of published studies was performed by searching the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO from inception to 31 May, 2018. The search strategy included methamphetamine, dependence, psychiatric symptoms, and risk factor terms. We reviewed the different features of MAP and the various types of assessment instruments and summarized MAP risk factors from MA use-related factors, socio-demographic characteristics, life events, and genetic factors. We found that MAP was consistently and causally associated with MA use, particularly as it relates to the frequency and amount of MA use. Other MAP-related risk factors like life events and genetics were relatively inconsistent in their association with MAP. Hence, causal and longitudinal studies that focus on multilateral comparisons are required. This review provides high quality evidence for MAP risk factors and would be helpful for developing early prevention and treatment strategies for MAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangwen Chang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Sun
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jiana Muhai
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Department of Medical Experimental Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Lu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking University Sixth Hospital, Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory on Drug Dependence Research, Beijing, China
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5
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Hartwell EE, Moallem NR, Courtney KE, Glasner-Edwards S, Ray LA. Sex Differences in the Association Between Internalizing Symptoms and Craving in Methamphetamine Users. J Addict Med 2017; 10:395-401. [PMID: 27504928 PMCID: PMC5083163 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Methamphetamine (MA) users often have substantial psychiatric comorbidities, with nearly a third reporting lifetime mood disorders and over a quarter reporting lifetime anxiety disorders. Female MA users are more likely to endorse depression and anxiety symptoms compared with men. Craving has been related to mood/anxiety symptoms in MA users. To extend the literature on sex differences in MA use disorder, the present study examines the role of sex as a moderator of the relationship between mood/anxiety symptoms and MA craving. METHODS Participants (N = 203) were nontreatment-seeking, current MA users, recruited from the Los Angeles community for enrollment in a larger pharmacotherapy trial. At the assessment visit, participants completed multiple measures including the Methamphetamine Urge Questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory. RESULTS The relationship between depression symptomatology and MA craving was moderated by sex (F = 6.18, P = 0.01), such that the relationship was positive and significant for men (P < 0.001), but was not significant for women. Similarly, sex significantly moderated the relationship between anxiety and MA craving (F = 5.99, P = 0.02), such that the relationship was also positive and significant in men, but not in women (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that men may be more sensitive to the effects of internalizing symptoms on MA craving than women. Given craving's propensity to predict relapse, these initial findings indicate the necessity of treating comorbid psychiatric problems in male MA users, which may in turn assist in the attenuation of craving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E. Hartwell
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles
- Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, University of California, Los Angeles
| | | | | | | | - Lara A. Ray
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles
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6
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Kingston REF, Marel C, Mills KL. A systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid mental health disorders in people presenting for substance use treatment in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016; 36:527-539. [PMID: 27786426 DOI: 10.1111/dar.12448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
ISSUES The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid mental health conditions in people accessing treatment for substance use in Australia. APPROACH A systematic review identified studies meeting the following eligibility criteria: reporting original data published in English; sample presenting for substance use treatment in Australia; assessing the prevalence of mental health and substance use conditions and reporting the percentage of participants with co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions. A narrative analysis was conducted because of the heterogeneity of methods used to assess key outcome variables and small number of studies assessing particular mental health outcomes. The abstracts of 1173 records were screened, and 59 full articles were assessed for eligibility. Eighteen studies were included in the review. KEY FINDINGS Prevalence estimates of current mental disorders in substance use treatment clients varied (47 to 100%). Mood and anxiety disorders were particularly prevalent, with the prevalence of current depression ranging from 27 to 85% and current generalised anxiety disorder ranging from 1 to 75%. IMPLICATIONS The high prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders in substance use treatment settings indicates a need for clinicians to screen and assess for these disorders as part of routine clinical care, and be familiar with evidence-based management and treatment strategies. CONCLUSION Although further studies are required to determine the prevalence of the full range of mental health disorders in this population, these findings emphasise the high prevalence of comorbid mental disorders are among individuals accessing substance use treatment in Australia. [Kingston REF, Marel C, Mills KL. A systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid mental health disorders in people presenting for substance use treatment in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:527-539].
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary E F Kingston
- Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christina Marel
- Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katherine L Mills
- Centre of Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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7
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Baracz SJ, Cornish JL. The neurocircuitry involved in oxytocin modulation of methamphetamine addiction. Front Neuroendocrinol 2016; 43:1-18. [PMID: 27546878 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The role of oxytocin in attenuating the abuse of licit and illicit drugs, including the psychostimulant methamphetamine, has been examined with increased ferocity in recent years. This is largely driven by the potential application of oxytocin as a pharmacotherapy. However, the neural mechanisms by which oxytocin modulates methamphetamine abuse are not well understood. Recent research identified an important role for the accumbens core and subthalamic nucleus in this process, which likely involves an interaction with dopamine, glutamate, GABA, and vasopressin. In addition to providing an overview of methamphetamine, the endogenous oxytocin system, and the effects of exogenous oxytocin on drug abuse, we propose a neural circuit through which exogenous oxytocin modulates methamphetamine abuse, focusing on its interaction with neurochemicals within the accumbens core and subthalamic nucleus. A growing understanding of exogenous oxytocin effects at a neurochemical and neurobiological level will assist in its evaluation as a pharmacotherapy for drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Baracz
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Jennifer L Cornish
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia.
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8
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Baracz SJ, Everett NA, McGregor IS, Cornish JL. Oxytocin in the nucleus accumbens core reduces reinstatement of methamphetamine-seeking behaviour in rats. Addict Biol 2016; 21:316-25. [PMID: 25399704 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The psychostimulant methamphetamine (METH) is an addictive illicit drug. Systemic administration of the neuropeptide oxytocin modulates METH-related reward and METH-seeking behaviour. Recent findings demonstrated a reduction in METH-induced reward by oxytocin administration into the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core. It is not known, however, if oxytocin acts in this region to reduce relapse to METH-seeking behaviour. Using the drug reinstatement paradigm in rats experienced at METH self-administration, we aimed to determine whether oxytocin pre-treatment within the NAc core would reduce relapse to METH use and if this could be reversed by the co-administration of the oxytocin receptor (OTR) antagonist desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT. Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent surgery to implant an intravenous jugular vein catheter and bilateral microinjection cannulae in the NAc core. Rats were then trained to self-administer intravenous METH (0.1 mg/kg/infusion) by lever press during 2-hour fixed ratio 1 scheduled sessions for 20 days. Following extinction of lever press activity, the effect of microinjecting saline, oxytocin (0.5 pmol, 1.5 pmol, 4.5 pmol) or co-administration of oxytocin (1.5 pmol) and desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT (1 nmol, 3 nmol) in the NAc core (500 nl/side) was examined on METH-primed (1 mg/kg, i.p.) reinstatement of drug-seeking behaviour. Our results showed oxytocin directly administered into the NAc core decreased METH-primed reinstatement in a dose-dependent manner. Co-administration of the selective OTR antagonist did not specifically reverse the inhibitory effects of oxytocin on METH priming, suggesting mediation by receptors other than the OTR. These findings highlight an important modulatory effect of oxytocin in the NAc core on relapse to METH seeking.
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9
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Baracz SJ, Everett NA, Cornish JL. The Involvement of Oxytocin in the Subthalamic Nucleus on Relapse to Methamphetamine-Seeking Behaviour. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0136132. [PMID: 26284529 PMCID: PMC4540453 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0136132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The psychostimulant methamphetamine (METH) is an addictive drug of abuse. The neuropeptide oxytocin has been shown to modulate METH-related reward and METH-seeking behaviour. Recent findings implicated the subthalamic nucleus (STh) as a key brain region in oxytocin modulation of METH-induced reward. However, it is unclear if oxytocin acts in this region to attenuate relapse to METH-seeking behaviour, and if this action is through the oxytocin receptor. We aimed to determine whether oxytocin pretreatment administered into the STh would reduce reinstatement to METH use in rats experienced at METH self-administration, and if this could be reversed by the co-administration of the oxytocin receptor antagonist desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT. Male Sprague Dawley rats underwent surgery to implant an intravenous jugular vein catheter and bilateral microinjection cannulae into the STh under isoflourane anaesthesia. Rats were then trained to self-administer intravenous METH (0.1 mg/kg/infusion) by lever press during 2-hour sessions under a fixed ratio 1 schedule for 20 days. Following extinction of lever press activity, the effect of microinjecting saline, oxytocin (0.2 pmol, 0.6 pmol, 1.8 pmol, 3.6 pmol) or co-administration of oxytocin (3.6 pmol) and desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT (3 nmol) into the STh (200 nl/side) was examined on METH-primed reinstatement (1 mg/kg; i.p.). We found that local administration of the highest oxytocin dose (3.6 pmol) into the STh decreased METH-induced reinstatement and desGly-NH2,d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT had a non-specific effect on lever press activity. These findings highlight that oxytocin modulation of the STh is an important modulator of relapse to METH abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Jane Baracz
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia, 2109
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10
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Hellem TL, Sung YH, Shi XF, Pett MA, Latendresse G, Morgan J, Huber RS, Kuykendall D, Lundberg KJ, Renshaw PF. Creatine as a Novel Treatment for Depression in Females Using Methamphetamine: A Pilot Study. J Dual Diagn 2015; 11:189-202. [PMID: 26457568 PMCID: PMC4684979 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2015.1100471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Depression among methamphetamine users is more prevalent in females than males, but gender-specific treatment options for this comorbidity have not been described. Reduced brain phosphocreatine levels have been shown to be lower in female methamphetamine users compared to males, and, of relevance, studies have demonstrated an association between treatment-resistant depression and reduced brain phosphocreatine concentrations. The nutritional supplement creatine monohydrate has been reported to reduce symptoms of depression in female adolescents and adults taking antidepressants, as well as to increase brain phosphocreatine in healthy volunteers. Therefore, the purpose of this pilot study was to investigate creatine monohydrate as a treatment for depression in female methamphetamine users. METHODS Fourteen females with depression and comorbid methamphetamine dependence were enrolled in an 8-week open label trial of 5 g of daily creatine monohydrate and of these 14, 11 females completed the study. Depression was measured using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) and brain phosphocreatine levels were measured using phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy pre- and post-creatine treatment. Secondary outcome measures included anxiety symptoms, measured with the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), as well as methamphetamine use, monitored by twice weekly urine drug screens and self-reported use. RESULTS The results of a linear mixed effects repeated measures model showed significantly reduced HAMD and BAI scores as early as week 2 when compared to baseline scores. This improvement was maintained through study completion. Brain phosphocreatine concentrations were higher at the second phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy scan compared to the baseline scan; Mbaseline = 0.223 (SD = 0.013) vs. Mpost-treatment = 0.233 (SD = 0.009), t (9) = 2.905, p <.01, suggesting that creatine increased phosphocreatine levels. Also, a reduction in methamphetamine positive urine drug screens of greater than 50% was observed by week 6. Finally, creatine was well tolerated and adverse events that were related to gastrointestinal symptoms and muscle cramping were determined as possibly related to creatine. CONCLUSIONS The current study suggests that creatine treatment may be a promising therapeutic approach for females with depression and comorbid methamphetamine dependence. This study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01514630).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Hellem
- a The Brain Institute, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,b The College of Nursing, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Young-Hoon Sung
- a The Brain Institute, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Xian-Feng Shi
- a The Brain Institute, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,c The Department of Psychiatry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Marjorie A Pett
- b The College of Nursing, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Gwen Latendresse
- b The College of Nursing, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Jubel Morgan
- a The Brain Institute, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,c The Department of Psychiatry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Rebekah S Huber
- a The Brain Institute, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | | | - Kelly J Lundberg
- c The Department of Psychiatry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Perry F Renshaw
- a The Brain Institute, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,c The Department of Psychiatry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,d VISN 19 MIRECC , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
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11
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Oxytocin directly administered into the nucleus accumbens core or subthalamic nucleus attenuates methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference. Behav Brain Res 2011; 228:185-93. [PMID: 22155611 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2011.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Revised: 11/24/2011] [Accepted: 11/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXY) may modulate reward-related behavioural responses to methamphetamine (METH) administration. Limited research has examined the effect of OXY on METH-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and little is known about the neural mechanisms involved. A Fos immunohistochemistry study recently demonstrated that peripheral OXY administration reduced METH-induced Fos expression within the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core and subthalamic nucleus (STh) in rats. The current study aimed to (i) investigate the effect of systemically administered OXY on METH-induced CPP, (ii) determine the effectiveness of a single-trial CPP procedure with METH, in order to (iii) evaluate whether pretreatment with OXY injected directly into the NAc core or the STh attenuates METH-induced CPP. Results showed that male Sprague Dawley rats learned to associate unique compartmental cues with METH (1 mg/kg, i.p.) such that they spent more time in the METH-paired compartment and less time in the saline-paired compartment. Pretreatment with systemic OXY (0.6 mg, i.p.), or OXY (0.6 ng, i.c.) microinjected into the NAc core or the STh prior to METH administration attenuated the formation of a CPP to METH. This provides further evidence that OXY acts within either the NAc core or the STh to reduce the rewarding effects of METH administration.
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Screening for mental disorder comorbidity in Australian alcohol and other drug residential treatment settings. J Subst Abuse Treat 2011; 40:397-404. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2010] [Revised: 09/23/2010] [Accepted: 01/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Lyons T, Chandra G, Goldstein J, Ostrow DG. Breaking the bond between stimulant use and risky sex: a qualitative study. Subst Abus 2011; 31:224-30. [PMID: 21038176 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2010.514240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Stimulant-using men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission, and are more likely to practice unprotected anal sex than MSM who do not use methamphetamine and/or crack cocaine. In this paper the authors report on interviews with stimulant-using men who have sex with men who have participated in Crystal Meth Anonymous and other 12-step groups, focusing on those who did not have unprotected anal intercourse during a 6-month follow-up period and their reasons for doing so. The authors find 4 common themes cited: a diminished sexual drive; exclusive sex with a primary partner; greater sense of responsibility/commitment to safer sex; and most commonly of the four, an overall healthier sex life. Participants' use of terms such as "healthy," "enjoyable," and "fulfilling" to describe sex not on stimulants, and avoidance of these terms for sex on stimulants, suggests a distinct dimension of sexual experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lyons
- Great Cities Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA.
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Cruickshank CC, Montebello ME, Dyer KR, Quigley A, Blaszczyk J, Tomkins S, Shand D. A placebo-controlled trial of mirtazapine for the management of methamphetamine withdrawal. Drug Alcohol Rev 2008; 27:326-33. [PMID: 18368615 DOI: 10.1080/09595230801935672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS As an antidepressant with sedative and anxiolytic properties, mirtazapine may be an appropriate pharmacotherapy for methamphetamine withdrawal. This study sought to examine whether mirtazapine improves retention and alleviates methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms in an out-patient setting. DESIGN AND METHODS An out-patient double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial of mirtazapine for the treatment of methamphetamine withdrawal was conducted (15 mg nocte for 2 days, 30 mg nocte for 12 days). Both groups were offered narrative therapy counselling. Measures recorded on days 0, 3, 7, 14 and 35 included: treatment retention, Amphetamine Cessation Symptoms Assessment, the Athens Insomnia Scale, the Brief Symptom Inventory, the Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS), Severity of Dependence scale and the Opiate Treatment Index Drug Use subscale. RESULTS Thirty-one participants were recruited (18 placebo, 13 mirtazapine) and 52% completed the 2-week medication phase. No significant differences between the mirtazapine and placebo groups in retention, or any symptom measure were observed, except greater DASS-anxiety and longer sleep duration were measured at baseline among the mirtazapine group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that mirtazapine does not facilitate retention or recruitment in out-patient methamphetamine withdrawal treatment, although recruitment may have been insufficient to identify a significant treatment effect. The potential role of narrative therapy for methamphetamine dependent patients deserves further exploration.
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Looby A, Earleywine M. The impact of methamphetamine use on subjective well-being in an Internet survey: preliminary findings. Hum Psychopharmacol 2007; 22:167-72. [PMID: 17310500 DOI: 10.1002/hup.831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine is one of the most widely used stimulants worldwide. Common reasons for use of the drug include efforts to improve or enhance one's life and to uplift one's mood. Nevertheless, acute effects of the drug lead to temporary improvements in mood followed by negative affect. The purpose of the present study was to expand on the current literature and examine other aspects of mood and satisfaction with life in methamphetamine users. Over 6000 adults completed an Internet survey and reported on depression, apathy, satisfaction with life, happiness, and subjective well-being, in addition to measures of methamphetamine use. We compared those who had used methamphetamine at least once within the past year (N = 610) to those who had never used (N = 6063). Methamphetamine use accounted for significant variance in depression, apathy, satisfaction with life, happiness, and subjective well-being even when alcohol and other drugs served as covariates. Methamphetamine use may decrease one's subjective well-being instead of enhancing it, which is contradictory to the perceptions of many users. Increasing awareness about methamphetamine's negative impact on mood and life satisfaction might help decrease prevalence of the drug's use and associated troubles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Looby
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, NY 12222, USA.
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Feeney GFX, Connor JP, Young RM, Tucker J, McPherson A. Improvement in measures of psychological distress amongst amphetamine misusers treated with brief cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). Addict Behav 2006; 31:1833-43. [PMID: 16431030 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2005.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2005] [Revised: 12/07/2005] [Accepted: 12/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This trial of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) based amphetamine abstinence program (n=507) focused on refusal self-efficacy, improved coping, improved problem solving and planning for relapse prevention. Measures included the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS), the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) and Amphetamine Refusal Self-Efficacy. Psychiatric case identification (caseness) across the four GHQ-28 sub-scales was compared with Australian normative data. Almost 90% were amphetamine-dependent (SDS 8.15+/-3.17). Pre-treatment, all GHQ-28 sub-scale measures were below reported Australian population values. Caseness was substantially higher than Australian normative values {Somatic Symptoms (52.3%), Anxiety (68%), Social Dysfunction (46.5%) and Depression (33.7%)}. One hundred and sixty-eight subjects (33%) completed and reported program abstinence. Program completers reported improvement across all GHQ-28 sub-scales {Somatic Symptoms (p<0.001), Anxiety (p<0.001), Social Dysfunction (p<0.001) and Depression (p<0.001)}. They also reported improvement in amphetamine refusal self-efficacy (p<0.001). Improvement remained significant following intention-to-treat analyses, imputing baseline data for subjects that withdrew from the program. The GHQ-28 sub-scales, Amphetamine Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and the SDS successfully predicted treatment compliance through a discriminant analysis function (p<.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- G F X Feeney
- Alcohol and Drug Assessment Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia.
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