Role of stimulant replacement therapy in treating stimulant use disorders

Mak, William; Webb, Devon; Sutherland, Cindy; Hirsh, Alana

doi:10.46747/cfp.6802109

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

References 6 publications

(11 reference statements)

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“…Furthermore, it is possible that expanding definitions of acceptable treatment outcomes for MUD beyond abstinence to include reductions of use and/or more regular, routine (rather than chaotic) use could confer clinically important health benefits [ 18 ].While not currently approved as an evidence-based treatment modality, stimulant replacement therapy in the form of full or partial agonists (e.g. dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate) is being explored as an approach to mitigating harms associated with stimulant use [ 23 , 24 ]. Replacement strategies could have a dramatic impact on the increasing rates of death associated with illicit stimulant use in a drug market increasingly characterized by polysubstance use and adulteration with synthetic opioids [ 25 ].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

A qualitative study of interest in and preferences for potential medications to treat methamphetamine use disorder

Wagner

Marks

Fiuty

et al. 2023

Addict Sci Clin Pract

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Introduction We examined acceptability of and preferences for potential medications for treating methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) among people who use methamphetamine and examined how benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use affect perceived acceptability and preferences. Methods We conducted qualitative interviews as part of a larger study in 2019–2020. The interview assessed patterns of substance use (including methamphetamine), benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use, and interest in a medication to treat MUD. Analysis used an inductive thematic approach, guided by three primary questions: (1) would participants be interested in taking a potential medication for MUD?; (2) what effects would they would like from such a medication?; and (3) what would their ideal treatment route and schedule be (e.g. daily pill, monthly injection)?. Results We interviewed 20 people reporting methamphetamine use in the past 3 months (10 from Reno, Nevada, USA and 10 from Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, USA). Seven used exclusively methamphetamine, while thirteen used other substances in addition to methamphetamine. Most were enthusiastic about a potential medication to treat MUD. Of those who were not interested (n = 5), all indicated no current concerns about their methamphetamine use. Perceived functional benefits of methamphetamine use (i.e., energy, counteracting opioid sedation, and improved social and emotional wellbeing) informed preferences for a replacement-type medication that would confer the same benefits while mitigating drawbacks (e.g., psychosis, hallucinations, withdrawal). Opinions on preferred dosing varied, with some preferring longer acting medications for convenience, while others preferred daily dosing that would align with existing routines. Conclusion Participants were excited about a potential for a medication to treat MUD. Their preferences were informed by the functional role of methamphetamine in their lives and a desire to maintain the stimulant effects while mitigating harms of illicit methamphetamine. Treatment outcomes that emphasize functioning and wellbeing, rather than abstinence, should be explored.

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