Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026

A General Method for Evaluating Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Intravenous Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Published on: January 22, 2016
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among chronic methamphetamine users: frequency, persistence, and adverse
Lisa C Obermeit1, Jordan E Cattie, Khalima A Bolden
1Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is common in methamphetamine (MA) users, persisting into adulthood and worsening daily functioning. Early ADHD screening and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in individuals with MA use disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is frequently observed alongside methamphetamine (MA) dependence.
- The prevalence, long-term nature, and functional impact of ADHD in MA users remain under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and persistence of ADHD in individuals with MA use disorders.
- To assess the real-world functional impact of ADHD among MA users.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessment was administered to 400 individuals with MA use disorders and 355 controls.
- Self-report measures of everyday functioning were included in the assessment battery.
Main Results:
- Lifetime ADHD diagnoses were significantly more common in MA users (21%) compared to controls (6%), particularly hyperactive and combined subtypes.
- MA use correlated with a higher likelihood of combined-type ADHD persisting into adulthood.
- Among MA users, ADHD diagnoses were linked to increased disability in daily living, cognitive symptoms, and unemployment.
Conclusions:
- ADHD is prevalent in chronic MA users and often persists into adulthood.
- ADHD significantly contributes to the disability associated with MA use disorders.
- Targeted ADHD screening and treatment could enhance outcomes for individuals with MA use disorders.
More Related Videos
10:02Event Related Potentials (ERPs) and other EEG Based Methods for Extracting Biomarkers of Brain Dysfunction: Examples from Pediatric Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Published on: March 12, 2020
13:09Using Brain Activation (nir-HEG/Q-EEG) and Execution Measures (CPTs) in a ADHD Assessment Protocol
Published on: April 1, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
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...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...