Methamphetamine Dependence Treated with ADHD Medication

May 19, 2015 | drug & alcohol

A 2015 study published in the DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences from the Faculty of Sciences presented a random, double blind, placebo-controlled analysis of the treatment process involving participants with a methamphetamine dependency and sustained-release methylphenidate (MPH-SR).

Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is a stimulant for the central nervous system, which can commonly be used for conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Narcolepsy.

Fifty-six mixed gender participants from 18-65 years old attending outpatient clinics were randomly placed into two groups, treatment or placebo. The treatment group received 18-54 mg of MPH-SR for 10 weeks.

Participants were evaluated weekly or biweekly by a visual analogue craving scale, urinary screening, and the Beck Depression Inventory-II.

The treatment group showed a significant decrease in craving, depression, and Methamphetamine in their urine compared to the placebo group. The research indicated that Methylphenidate could be a beneficial treatment for Methamphetamine dependency.

A copy of the abstract and research (in PDF format) can be found here.