Final Exam (Essay Question)

Intro

When methamphetamine is ingested (typically inhaled through smoking its crystal form) its highly lipophilic nature allows it cross the BBB far more quickly than other stimulants. This leads to rapid and intense interactions with a number of different NT systems

Meth and NT Systems

Binds to monoamine reuptake transporter proteins (blocks normal function and reverses transport process), enters neurons through here where it disrupts packaging process, at high doses inhibits MAO-A, induces release of NE in sympathetic nervous system (CDV effects)

Meth and NT Systems Specific Effects

Dopamine (euphoria, increased motor activity), norepinephrine (alertness), serotonin (appetite suppression)

Meth Acute Pharmacological Effects

Intense persistent drug action (the high), rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, increased respiratory rate, elevated body temp, cardiovascular issues, tremors, convulsions, potential death (heart attack, stroke, hyperthermia)

Meth Acute Psychological Effects

Acute psychotic symptoms (persecutory delusions/auditory hallucinations), insomnia, anxiety, paranoia, aggression/violence

Chronic Meth Effects

Neurotoxicity, Cognitive Impairments, Brain Structure Changes, Psychological/Behavioral Effects, Compulsive/Repetitive Behaviors, Physical Health Deterioration, Cardiovascular Issues

Final Sentence

Progressive declines in social, personal, and occupational lives

Neurotoxicity

Damage to axon terminals of dopamine and serotonin releasing neurons leading to neuronal death

Cognitive Impairments

Memory loss, verbal learning declines, slowed motor function

Brain Structure Changes

Irreversible loss of gray matter, increases in white matter scarring, ventricular enlargement, hippocampal neuron loss

Psychological/Behavioral Effects

Chronic anxiety, mood disturbances, paranoia, delusions, sudden outbursts of aggression/violence

Compulsive/Repetitive Behaviors

Punding (repititive, purposeless movements), stereotypical behaviors (obsessive organizing), and formication (the feeling of bugs crawling under skin → skin picking)

Physical Health Deterioration

Severe dental problems (meth mouth), malnutrition, extreme weight loss/anorexia

Cardiovascular Issues

Increased risk of stroke and heart failure