Selective Injury of the Globus Pallidus and Hippocampus in Methamphetamine-Induced Encephalopathy

Excerpt

Amphetamines, including amphetamine, methamphetamine and ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, MDMA), are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants which act by increasing dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. The short-term effects of amphetamines include euphoria, increased alertness, increased activity and decreased appetite, while an overdose of amphetamines produces a wide range of clinical effects through the modulation of peripheral and central neurotransmitter functions. The typical clinical picture of amphetamine toxicity involves peripheral sympathomimetic symptoms, which include tachycardia, diaphoresis, hypertension and tremor, with a wide range of CNS symptoms, including hyperarousal, agitation, hallucination, stroke, seizure and coma. While amphetamines are approved for the treatment of obesity, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy, the majority of amphetamines are illicitly manufactured and abused and amphetamines are the world’s second most commonly used illicit drug [1,2]. …