Methamphetamine Abstinence Syndrome: Preliminary Findings

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Abstract
Retrospective reports suggest that chronic use of methamphetamine is associated with a prolonged abstinence syndrome; however, there are no prospective studies confirming this. Nineteen non‐treatment‐seeking methamphetamine‐dependent volunteers participated in a study of mood during initial abstinence. Moderate levels of depression were reported during the first several days of abstinence, with minimal levels reported thereafter. The most prominent symptoms were anhedonia, irritability, and poor concentration. The abstinence syndrome associated with methamphetamine dependence varied considerably in intensity and duration but generally was mild and resolved quickly for most individuals.