Neurocognitive effects of methamphetamine: a critical review and meta-analysis

J Cobb Scott1, Steven Paul Woods, Georg E Matt

  • 1Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University and University of California, San Diego, CA 92120, USA.

Neuropsychology Review
|August 19, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Methamphetamine (MA) use causes significant cognitive deficits, including memory and executive function impairments. These neurotoxic effects impact psychosocial and medical health, requiring clinical attention.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Psychiatry
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Methamphetamine (MA) use is associated with severe psychosocial, neuropsychiatric, and medical issues.
  • Understanding the central nervous system (CNS) effects of MA is crucial for clinical management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically analyze the CNS effects of acute and chronic methamphetamine use.
  • To conduct a meta-analysis of the neuropsychological consequences of MA abuse and dependence.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and critical analysis of CNS effects.
  • Meta-analysis of neuropsychological studies on MA abuse/dependence.

Main Results:

  • MA abuse/dependence is linked to medium effect size deficits in memory, executive functions, processing speed, motor skills, language, and visuoconstruction.
  • Neuropsychological deficits are potentially explained by MA-induced frontostriatal neurotoxicity.

Conclusions:

  • Neuropsychological deficits in MA users are significant and multifactorial.
  • Factors like demographics, MA use patterns, and comorbidities influence outcomes.
  • Findings can inform clinical management strategies for individuals with MA abuse/dependence.

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