Neurologic manifestations of chronic methamphetamine abuse.

Abstract

Methamphetamine abuse has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. The repetitive use of methamphetamine causes massive and sustained elevations in central monoamines. These elevations, particularly in dopamine, can cause changes in the function of the central nervous system that can manifest as a variety of neurologic disorders. This article focuses on these disorders, such as neurocognitive disorders and mental illness, including drug-induced psychosis; motor disorders, including the possible risk of Parkinson's disease, the development of choreoathetoid movements, and punding; and changes in the physical appearance of the methamphetamine users, including dental caries.

• Authors: Daniel E Rusyniak
• Journal: Neurologic clinics (Neurol Clin) Vol. 29 Issue 3 Pg. 641-55 (Aug 2011) ISSN: 1557-9875 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 21803215 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Central Nervous System Stimulants
• Methamphetamine

Topics

• Amphetamine-Related Disorders (etiology)
• Central Nervous System Stimulants (adverse effects)
• Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced (etiology)
• Humans
• Methamphetamine (adverse effects)
• Paresthesia (chemically induced)
• Parkinsonian Disorders (chemically induced)