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Updated: Jul 29, 2026
A General Method for Evaluating Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Intravenous Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Published on: January 22, 2016
Modeling methamphetamine use disorder in mammals: Sex differences in behavioral, biochemical, and transcriptional
Atul P Daiwile1, Jean Lud Cadet1
1Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIDA Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, MD, United States.
Abstract:
Methamphetamine (METH) is the most commonly misused amphetamine-type stimulant throughout the globe. METH is very rewarding, and its misuse can lead to a diagnosis of METH use disorder (MUD). Although METH use is observed in both sexes, there are, however, reported differences in the clinical manifestations of METH use and its consequences. These observations indicate the need for more research on the long-term sex-dependent consequences of METH taking in both preclinical and clinical settings. In effect, sex is a biological variable that can impact conclusions drawn from various basic and clinical studies. Thus, the present chapter provides a succinct review of the current state of the research on METH and its sex-associated consequences. In addition to behavioral and cognitive aspects of METH use, we discuss METH-induced changes in neurotransmitter systems and structures in the brain. Thus, the book chapter serves to highlight the significance of sex as a critical element that needs to be considered during discussions of novel therapeutic approaches to MUD.
Insights
Methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) affects both sexes, but outcomes differ. Research highlights sex-specific consequences of methamphetamine use on brain function and behavior, crucial for developing new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Methamphetamine (METH) is a widely misused stimulant, leading to METH use disorder (MUD).
- Observed differences in METH's effects and consequences between sexes necessitate further investigation.
- Sex is a critical biological variable influencing METH's impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on METH and its sex-associated consequences.
- To highlight the importance of considering sex in METH research and treatment development.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical and clinical studies on METH use.
- Analysis of behavioral, cognitive, and neurobiological effects of METH.
- Examination of sex differences in METH's impact on neurotransmitter systems and brain structures.
Main Results:
- METH misuse leads to MUD with sex-specific clinical manifestations.
- Sex influences the long-term consequences of METH exposure.
- METH affects neurotransmitter systems and brain structures in a sex-dependent manner.
Conclusions:
- Sex is a critical factor influencing METH's effects and MUD.
- Future research and therapeutic strategies for MUD must account for sex differences.
- Understanding sex-specific impacts is vital for effective MUD treatment.
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