Non-medical Mephentermine Use: A Systematic Review of Literature

The objective of the study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature on non-medical use of mephentermine, including its pattern of use, associated complications, and treatment approaches.

We conducted a systematic search across PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and EBSCO, to identify studies reporting non-medical mephentermine use. Two independent reviewers screened the studies, and methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Extracted data included demographics, use patterns, psychiatric and physical complications, cooccurring substance use, and treatment approaches.

Of 695 retrieved studies, 23 full-text studies met inclusion criteria (4 case series, 19 case reports, 30 cases). The majority (n = 28, 93.3%) were from India, all male (age: 19-39 y, mean = 27.9). Most used mephentermine for performance enhancement (63%), primarily through intravenous injection (77.8%). Psychiatric comorbidities were reported in 60%, with psychosis (43.3%) being the most common. Cooccurring substance use (40%) included alcohol, tobacco, and anabolic steroids. Treatment was largely symptomatic, with antipsychotics and benzodiazepines being most frequently prescribed.

Non-medical mephentermine use appears to be rising, particularly among athletes and bodybuilders, with notable psychiatric complications. Targeted education and clinical awareness are needed. Further research should explore addiction potential, long-term effects, and treatment strategies.