Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug of abuse that can cause severe psychological, physical, and social issues. Accessing treatment to reduce and stop methamphetamine use can significantly improve the chances of recovery, and various types of treatments are available.
- Methamphetamine use disorder can cause severe physical and mental health issues, along with legal, financial, and social consequences.
- Various treatments are available for methamphetamine addiction, including psychological and behavioral therapies, rehabilitation services, and different medications.
- People who stay in treatment for longer and utilize ongoing treatment and support can experience improved recovery rates.
Methamphetamine addiction treatment
Coming off methamphetamine (meth) can be very unpleasant and may cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms and high relapse rates. Because of this, it is often necessary for people with methamphetamine addiction, or methamphetamine use disorder (MUD), to utilize professional advice and treatment. [1]
Treatments can be provided at inpatient facilities, often referred to as rehab centers, or via outpatient treatment programs. People who require more intensive care and monitoring may be better suited to inpatient programs, as they can provide 24-hour professional support. However, for some people, outpatient programs can be beneficial. There are a range of outpatient treatment approaches that can be tailored to the needs of the individual.
During a treatment program, case managers monitor and review the individual’s progress and the effectiveness of their treatment, making necessary adjustments to help ensure the most successful outcomes. [2]
Treatment options for meth addiction
Different types of treatment options are available for meth addiction, including various therapies, medications, and psychosocial support.
Pharmacological
Currently, there are no approved medications for methamphetamine treatment. However, people in MUD treatment might be prescribed medications to help manage specific or co-occurring symptoms, such as: [1][2]
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Benzodiazepines
- Anticonvulsants
Behavioral therapies
Behavioral therapies are often used in MUD and other substance use disorders and are found to be effective. The most commonly used types of behavioral therapy for MUD include: [1][3]
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps people correct harmful behavior patterns and is an effective treatment for many substance use disorders. It can help with reducing and stopping drug use, sustaining abstinence, and learning skills to manage recovery and prevent relapse.
- Motivational interviewing (MI): MI helps to improve motivation and commitment to engage in treatment by reducing ambivalence and exploring reasons to change. It can contribute to positive outcomes in MUD treatment.
- Contingency management (CM): CM uses positive reinforcement principles to help people achieve and maintain abstinence. Rewards are given when reaching specific goals, such as clean drug tests or treatment attendance. Studies show positive effects of CM include reduced methamphetamine use and cravings, improved treatment retention, and improvements in mental health symptoms.
Mindfulness-based approaches
Mindfulness-based approaches are gaining traction in substance use disorder treatment. They can help people be more present in the moment, recognize their thoughts and sensations, and accept and manage distress without returning to substance use. These approaches can improve mental health symptoms associated with substance use and can be as effective as other treatments at helping to reduce methamphetamine use. [1][4]
Holistic approaches
Holistic approaches can be beneficial for mental and physical well-being within MUD treatment and recovery. This can include exercise, nutrition, meditation, animal therapy, and art therapy. In particular, exercise can help with recovery, maintenance, and reduced relapse rates. [1]
Matrix Model
The Matrix Model is a structured approach to MUD treatment, delivered in a 16-week intensive outpatient treatment program (IOP). It incorporates various evidence-based treatment approaches, including behavioral therapies, family therapy, recovery groups, relapse prevention planning, and education. [5]
A multidisciplinary team provides this treatment and supports individuals in reaching personal goals. Evidence indicates that the Matrix Model can be effective for people with methamphetamine and other substance use issues, improving treatment retention, recovery rates, abstinence, and relapse prevention. [5]
Emerging treatments and research
As there are currently no approved medications for methamphetamine use disorder, much of the research into new treatment options is investigating the effects of different medications. Medications that have shown promising outcomes and require further exploration include: [6]
- Modafinil: A non-amphetamine stimulant, modafinil shows potential for helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings and improve cognition and treatment response. In one study, 60% of participants were able to more than halve their methamphetamine use when treated with modafinil and CBT.
- Bupropion: An antidepressant that is also used in smoking cessation, bupropion has shown some promise in reducing methamphetamine use in light users. Various studies indicate potential benefits such as reduced methamphetamine use, reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and improved cognition.
- Methylphenidate: Primarily used as an ADHD medication, methylphenidate is a stimulant with similar effects to methamphetamine but less abuse potential and neurological harm. It shows potential as a replacement medication for severe methamphetamine dependence.
- D-amphetamine: D-amphetamine (dextroamphetamine) has a higher potential for abuse but shows potential as a replacement medication in stimulant use disorders by reducing use and improving treatment engagement.
- Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, often used in opioid use disorders. It has shown an effect in reducing amphetamine dependence and can help reduce drug-seeking behaviors.
Managing withdrawal and detoxification
Methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms can include low mood, sleep problems, changes in appetite, fatigue, and anxiety, which can range from mild to severe and may vary depending on duration and amount of use. [7]
Some people may be able to manage withdrawal at home, while others might require professional monitoring and support. People with severe methamphetamine dependence could benefit from residential detox services, which involve staying in a facility during the withdrawal process. During this time, professionals can provide support and treatment as required. [7]
During methamphetamine withdrawal, people often experience changes in sleep and appetite. It can be helpful to ensure proper hydration, nutrition, and rest to help manage this.
Support systems and aftercare
Following MUD treatment, it is not uncommon for people to experience challenges, triggers, and relapse. Ongoing support can help reduce this risk, which can include: [8]
- Continuing with or starting psychological and behavioral therapies
- Attending support groups
- Utilizing support systems of family and friends
- Attending appointments and reviews with physicians or specialists
- Engaging in exercise
Evidence shows that people who engage with treatments and ongoing support for longer periods are more likely to have better success rates in their recovery. [9]
Success rates and challenges
Utilizing professional treatments can significantly improve success rates for people with MUD. However, relapse is common and reportedly occurs in around 61% of individuals within one year following treatment. [9] Although relapses can feel demoralizing or disappointing, they can also be used as a learning experience to help improve recovery.
It is often helpful to have a relapse prevention plan, which can be developed alone or with the help of a professional. This can help to identify potential triggers, learn and practice coping skills, and list helpful actions that can be utilized in challenging situations or in the event of a relapse to return to recovery. [8]
Accessing methamphetamine addiction treatment
People can access methamphetamine addiction treatment by consulting their primary care physician, who can advise and refer to specialist services. Alternatively, people can look for treatment programs within their area by searching the Recovered Directory.
