RTI uses cookies to offer you the best experience online. By clicking “accept” on this website, you opt in and you agree to the use of cookies. If you would like to know more about how RTI uses cookies and how to manage them please view our Privacy Policy here. You can “opt out” or change your mind by visiting: http://optout.aboutads.info/. Click “accept” to agree.
Factors associated with methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms among people who inject drugs
Zhao, J., Kral, A. H., Simpson, K. A., Ceasar, R. C., Wenger, L. D., Kirkpatrick, M., & Bluthenthal, R. N. (2021). Factors associated with methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms among people who inject drugs. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 223, Article 108702. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108702
Background: Regular methamphetamine (MA) use can result in withdrawal syndrome characterized by fatigue, agitation, depression, and anxiety. No studies that we are aware of have examined the prevalence and predictors of MA withdrawal symptoms among people who inject drugs (PWID).
Methods: PWID were recruited using targeted sampling methods in Los Angeles and San Francisco, California from 2016 to 2017. Survey questions included demographics, drug use, and MA withdrawal symptoms, frequency, and symptom severity. Participants who reported regular MA use (>= 12 times in the last 30 days) were included in this analysis (N = 595). Multivariable regression models were developed to examine factors associated with any MA withdrawal, withdrawal frequency, symptom severity, and receptive syringe sharing.
Results: MA withdrawal symptoms in the past 6 months were reported by 53 % of PWID, with 25 % reporting weekly withdrawal symptoms, and 20 % reporting very or extremely painful symptoms. In multivariable logistic regression, presence of any MA withdrawal symptoms was positively associated with more frequent MA use and non-injection tranquilizer use and inversely associated with crack cocaine use. Among those reporting any withdrawal, female sex was associated with more frequent withdrawal symptoms. Very or extremely painful withdrawal symptoms were associated with being in residential treatment. Receptive syringe sharing was associated with any MA withdrawal symptoms and weekly frequency of symptoms.
Conclusion: MA withdrawal symptoms are common among PWID and are associated with receptive syringe sharing. Strategies for implementing MA use treatment, safe supply programs, and syringe services programs targeting people who inject MA are indicated.
