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Methamphetamine use increases stroke risk in young adults

Hemorrhagic stroke was notably associated with methamphetamine use among young adults, according to a recent review.

“Despite its widespread use and potential clinical significance, however, the features and pathogenesis of methamphetamine-related stroke are poorly understood,” Julia M. Lappin, MRCPsych, of the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Australia, and colleagues wrote. “This is of particular relevance in a period of large increases in worldwide methamphetamine use, when the incidence of methamphetamine-related stroke, particularly among young people, would be expected to increase in conjunction with use.”

To assess associations between stroke and methamphetamine use, researchers conducted a review of 77 articles related to methamphetamine and stroke. There were 81 hemorrhagic and 17 ischemic strokes reported in case reports and series.

Both hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke were approximately twice as common in males.

Hemorrhagic stroke was associated with oral or IV administration, while ischemic stroke was more common with inhalation.

One-third of the study cohort exhibited an association between vascular abnormalities and hemorrhagic stroke.

One-quarter of participants recovered completely, while one-third died following hemorrhagic stroke.

Following ischemic stroke, one-fifth of participants completely recovered and one-fifth died.

“With the use of methamphetamine increasing, particularly more potent forms, there is a growing burden of methamphetamine-related disease and harms, particularly among young people, in whom the majority of methamphetamine use occurs. Indeed, it is likely that methamphetamine abuse is making a disproportionate contribution to the increased incidence of stroke among young people observed over recent years,” the researchers wrote. “Clinicians treating methamphetamine users, and users themselves, need to be aware of the elevated risk of stroke in young methamphetamine users and to be aware of early signs and symptoms.” – by Amanda Oldt

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.