| Summary: | Methamphetamine is a recreational drug of abuse synthesized illegally in laboratories using a variety of ingredients of over-the-counter medications, including ephedrine or pseudoephedrine. Methamphetamine is often sold in powder, crystal or tablet formulations and can be inhaled, ingested, smoked, or injected after mixing with water. Methamphetamine has a long half-life of 12 hours and the altered mental state can last up to 12 hours depending on the route of administration. Short-term effects associated with its use include alertness, decreased appetite, headache, dizziness, increased body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Longer-term effects may include psychotic symptoms such as violent behaviour, paranoia, and hallucinations. Extreme itching, mood swings, memory loss, and insomnia are also the potential long-term effects. The withdrawal effect of amphetamine can include intense craving, tiredness, anxiety, depression. The objective of this report is to summarize evidence-based guidelines regarding treatment immediately after acute detoxification and post-treatment care for patients with methamphetamine addiction
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