[Methamphetamine dependence: Consequences and complications]

Abstract

Methamphetamine is the second illicit drug used after cannabis in North America, Asia, Oceania. It also becomes a prominent part of the European drug scene, especially in East European countries such as Czech Republic and Slovakia. Methamphetamine addiction is a serious worldwide public health problem with many consequences and complications. Significant morbidity, including cardiovascular, infectious, pulmonary, dental diseases and other systems complications are associated with methamphetamine acute or chronic use. Cognitive disorders, psychotic and mood disorders have been reported. There is also substantial evidence that methamphetamine has an adverse impact on social relationships. Treatment of methamphetamine complications is primarily supportive and need a multidisciplinary approach. It can serve as a target to initiate a treatment for the addiction problem. The use of behavioral therapies and pharmacological agents are the best therapeutic approach.