Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

A General Method for Evaluating Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Intravenous Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Published on: January 22, 2016
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.
Abstract:
This review provides a critical analysis of the central nervous system effects of acute and chronic methamphetamine (MA) use, which is linked to numerous adverse psychosocial, neuropsychiatric, and medical problems. A meta-analysis of the neuropsychological effects of MA abuse/dependence revealed broadly medium effect sizes, showing deficits in episodic memory, executive functions, information processing speed, motor skills, language, and visuoconstructional abilities. The neuropsychological deficits associated with MA abuse/dependence are interpreted with regard to their possible neural mechanisms, most notably MA-associated frontostriatal neurotoxicity. In addition, potential explanatory factors are considered, including demographics (e.g., gender), MA use characteristics (e.g., duration of abstinence), and the influence of common psychiatric (e.g., other substance-related disorders) and neuromedical (e.g., HIV infection) comorbidities. Finally, these findings are discussed with respect to their potential contribution to the clinical management of persons with MA abuse/dependence.
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.
More Related Videos
12:31A Visual Description of the Dissection of the Cerebral Surface Vasculature and Associated Meninges and the Choroid Plexus from Rat Brain
Published on: November 14, 2012
07:02A Computerized Test Battery to Study Pharmacodynamic Effects on the Central Nervous System of Cholinergic Drugs in Early Phase Drug Development
Published on: February 11, 2019
Related Concept Videos
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Synthesis
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Release or Uptake