This Month in Psychopharmacology

Characteristics of Methamphetamine Users

The use and abuse of methamphetamine is a worldwide problem that can have very dire consequences. In this report, released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and using self-reported data gathered from the 2015-2018 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health, investigators estimated methamphetamine use rates in the United States as well as characteristics associated with methamphetamine use. The estimated annual average rate of lifetime methamphetamine use was an alarming 59.7 per 1000 adults. Past year use of methamphetamine was highest among non-Hispanic whites, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic other races, those with less education, individuals of lower socioeconomic standing, and those with mental illness. The data also indicated that there is a high rate of co-occurring use of other substances (Figure). Unfortunately, fewer than 1/3 of individuals using methamphetamine report receiving any substance use treatment. These findings may help guide clinicians and policy makers to developing better screening tools for methamphetamine use disorder as well as improving access to treatment for those who need it.

Figure. Co-occurring Substance Use



Reference:

Jones CM et al. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69:317-23. Abstract


For more information:

NEI Podcast w/ Dr. William Sauve
(CME) Stimulating Side Effects: What to Do When Your Patient is Using Methamphetamine

Addiction/Reward
Cases of Comorbid Substance Use (NEI Members only)
CME credit: 0.75
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November 5 - 8, 2020 | Colorado Springs, CO