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Methamphetamine (C10H15N) is an exogenous organic compound with an average molecular weight of 149.23 g/mol that exists as a solid at room temperature. Methamphetamine belongs to the phenethylamines, a subclass of benzene and substituted derivatives within the organic compounds. It is classified as a drug, neurotoxin, central nervous system stimulant, and psychotropic drug (PMC12241196 ). It has been detected in the liver and kidney.
The compound acts as an agonist of the sodium-dependent dopamine transporter (SLC6A3), the sodium-dependent serotonin transporter (SLC6A4), the synaptic vesicular amine transporter (SLC18A2), and the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), among 11 other protein targets. It also targets the alpha-1A (ADRA1A) and alpha-1B (ADRA1B) adrenergic receptors. Methamphetamine triggers a cascading release of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain, acting as an adrenergic and dopaminergic reuptake inhibitor, and functioning as a monamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in high concentrations.
Methamphetamine is used in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and veterinary products as a nootropic, a psychostimulant, and an agent for ADHD. It is found in drinking water and various other sources, including household cleaning and consumer products, food processing, and electrical equipment. Exposure routes include oral ingestion and smoking (PMC9988231 ). Health effects associated with the compound include inflammation (PMC9434488 ), pain and fatigue (PMC3573677 ), hyperthermia (PMC7735854 ), and placental abruption (PMC8763371 ). Additionally, it is associated with increases in fever, paresthesia, and seizures (PMC9988231 ), as well as anxiety and depression (PMC11728700 ).
Belongs to the class of organic compounds known as amphetamines and derivatives. These are organic compounds containing or derived from 1-phenylpropan-2-amine.
Methamphetamine enters the brain and triggers a cascading release of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. To a lesser extent methamphetamine acts as a dopaminergic and adrenergic reuptake inhibitor and in high concentrations as a monamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). The mechanism of action involved in producing the beneficial behavioral changes seen in hyperkinetic children receiving methamphetamine is unknown.
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Symptoms
Manifestations of acute overdosage with methamphetamine include restlessness, tremor, hyperreflexia, rapid respiration, confusion, assaultiveness, hallucinations, panic states, hyperpyrexia, and rhabdomyolysis. Fatigue and depression usually follow the central stimulation. Cardiovascular effects include arrhythmias, hypertension or hypotension, and circulatory collapse. Gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Fatal poisoning usually terminates in convulsions and coma.
Treatment
Management of acute methamphetamine intoxication is largely symptomatic and includes gastric evacuation, administration of activated charcoal, and sedation. Experience with hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is inadequate to permit recommendations in this regard. Acidification of urine increases methamphetamine excretion, but is believed to increase risk of acute renal failure if myoglobinuria is present. Intravenous phentolamine has been suggested for possible acute, severe hypertension, if this complicates methamphetamine overdosage. Usually a gradual drop in blood pressure will result when sufficient sedation has been achieved. Chlorpromazine has been reported to be useful in decreasing CNS stimulation and sympathomimetic effects. (7)
A disorder characterized by a state of generalized weakness with a pronounced inability to summon sufficient energy to accomplish daily activities. (NCI CTCAE)
A bronchial disease that is characterized by chronic inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The disease has symptom recurring periods of wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing), has symptom chest tightness, has symptom shortness of breath, has symptom mucus production and has symptom coughing. The symptoms appear due to a variety of triggers such as allergens, irritants, respiratory infections, weather changes, exercise, stress, reflux disease, medications, foods and emotional anxiety. (DO)
A disorder characterized by a sensation of marked discomfort in various parts of the head, not confined to the area of distribution of any nerve. (NCI CTCAE)
A disorder characterized by a sensation of marked discomfort in various parts of the head, not confined to the area of distribution of any nerve. (NCI CTCAE)
A disorder characterized by apprehension of danger and dread accompanied by restlessness, tension, tachycardia, and dyspnea unattached to a clearly identifiable stimulus. (NCI CTCAE)
A viral infectious disease that results in inflammation. located in liver, has material basis in Hepatitis C virus, which is transmitted by blood from an infected person enters the body of an uninfected person. The infection has symptom fever, has symptom fatigue, has symptom loss of appetite, has symptom nausea, has symptom vomiting, has symptom abdominal pain, has symptom clay-colored bowel movements, has symptom joint pain, and has symptom jaundice. (DO)
A disorder characterized by a decrease or absence of blood supply to the brain caused by obstruction (thrombosis or embolism) of an artery resulting in neurological damage. (NCI CTCAE)
Indoor air?Indoor air can be a significant reservoir for synthetic chemical contaminants, which often originate from various sources within enclosed environments.
Drinking water?Drinking water can be a medium for synthetic chemical contamination, often originating from various industrial processes and agricultural practices.
Brushes?Brushes used in personal care and cosmetics can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings used in their manufacturing.
Psychostimulants, agents used for adhd and nootropics?Psychostimulants, including agents commonly prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and nootropics, are synthetic chemicals that enhance cognitive function, attention, and alertness.
Fabrics?Fabrics can be a significant source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the use of various chemicals during their production, treatment, and finishing processes.
Stairs And Ramps?Stairs and ramps in construction are often treated with various synthetic chemicals to enhance durability, slip resistance, and weather resistance.
Tents Or Canopies?Tents and canopies used in various applications can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination primarily due to the materials from which they are made.
Adjustable Resistors?Adjustable resistors, commonly used in various electronic devices, can contribute to synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and substances used in their manufacturing and disposal.
Antennas?Antennas, commonly used in communication technologies, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and coatings used in their construction.
Communication Cables Or Conductors?Communication cables or conductors are essential components in the transmission of data and signals in various applications, including telecommunications and networking.
Conductors Or Conductive Bodies Characterised By The Conductive Materials?Conductors, or conductive bodies, are materials that allow the flow of electrical current, typically made from metals such as copper, aluminum, or silver.
Discharge Lamps?Discharge lamps, including fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, are commonly used for lighting applications due to their energy efficiency and brightness.
Discharge Tubes With Liquid Pool Cathodes?Discharge tubes with liquid pool cathodes are devices that utilize a liquid metal as the cathode in gas discharge applications.
Electrically Stimulated Smoking Devices?Electrically stimulated smoking devices, commonly known as e-cigarettes or vape pens, utilize electrical components to heat a liquid solution, often containing nicotine, flavorings, and other additives, to produce an aerosol for inhalation.
Electrodes?Electrodes, used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials from which they are constructed and the processes involved in their manufacturing.
Fixed Capacitors And Their Manufacture?Fixed capacitors are passive electronic components used to store and release electrical energy, playing a critical role in various circuits.
Gas Filled Discharge Tubes With Gaseous Cathodes?Gas Filled Discharge Tubes with Gaseous Cathodes are electrical devices that facilitate the conduction of electricity through a gas medium.
Hybrid Capacitors?Hybrid capacitors are energy storage devices that combine the properties of electrolytic and supercapacitors, utilizing a combination of electrochemical principles to achieve higher energy density and power density.
Line Transmission Systems?Line Transmission Systems, commonly used for the distribution of electrical energy, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the insulation materials and coatings utilized in their construction.
Magnets?Magnets, commonly used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their production.
Power Cables?Power cables are used to transmit electrical energy and are typically composed of conductive materials, insulation, and protective coatings.
Superconducting Magnets And Superconducting Coils?Superconducting magnets and coils are utilized in various applications that require strong magnetic fields, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and particle accelerators.
Television Systems?Television systems can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the various materials and components used in their manufacture and operation.
Food Preservation?Food preservation often involves the use of synthetic chemicals, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, and color additives, to extend shelf life and enhance the sensory qualities of food products.
Bleaching Agents?Bleaching agents are chemical substances used to whiten or lighten materials, often employed in various cleaning products for their stain removal and disinfecting properties.
Non Electric Simulated Smoking Devices?Non-electric simulated smoking devices, often designed to mimic the experience of smoking without combustion, can be sources of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and chemicals used in their construction and operation.
Other Smoking Requisites?Other smoking requisites, including items such as lighters, matches, and rolling papers, can introduce synthetic chemical contamination through various components and additives.
Perfumes Within Detergents And Soaps?Perfumes within detergents and soaps are synthetic fragrance compounds added to enhance the sensory experience of cleaning products.
Pipe Accessories?Pipe accessories, such as fittings, connectors, and seals, are components used in plumbing systems to facilitate the flow of liquids and gases.
Soap Detergents?Soap detergents are synthetic surfactants designed to enhance the cleaning efficacy of water by reducing surface tension, allowing for better interaction with dirt and grease.
Tobacco Smoke Filters?Tobacco smoke filters are designed to reduce the inhalation of harmful substances in cigarette smoke, including tar and other particulate matter.
Manufacture Of Iron Or Steel?The manufacture of iron or steel involves various processes, including smelting, refining, and alloying, which can result in the release of synthetic chemicals and contaminants.
Manufacture Preparation Of Tobacco Products?The manufacture and preparation of tobacco products involve various processes that can result in the introduction of synthetic chemicals into the environment.
Paper Making Machines?Paper making machines utilize various synthetic chemicals throughout the production process, including additives, coatings, and bleaching agents.
Marine Propulsion Or Steering?Marine propulsion and steering systems often rely on various synthetic chemicals, including lubricants, fuels, and hydraulic fluids.
Chemosterilants?Chemosterilants are synthetic chemicals designed to induce sterility in target pest populations, thereby controlling their reproduction and mitigating damage to crops.
Lawn Mowers?Lawn mowers, particularly those powered by gasoline, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the combustion of fossil fuels and the use of engine oils.
Molluscicides?Molluscicides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control and eliminate mollusks, such as snails and slugs, which can be detrimental to crops and agricultural productivity.
Nematocides?Nematocides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control nematodes, which are microscopic roundworms that can cause significant damage to crops and plants.
Aftersun Products?Aftersun products are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin after sun exposure, often containing various synthetic chemicals such as emollients, preservatives, and fragrances.
Anti Perspirants Or Body Deoderants?Antiperspirants and body deodorants commonly contain synthetic chemicals such as aluminum compounds, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Depilatories?Depilatories are products designed to remove unwanted hair through the application of synthetic chemicals that break down the protein structure of hair, facilitating its removal.
Essential Oils Or Perfumes?Essential oils and perfumes are complex mixtures of volatile compounds derived from natural or synthetic sources, commonly used for their aromatic properties.
Eye Makeup Products?Eye makeup products, including mascaras, eyeliners, and eyeshadows, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as pigments, preservatives, and film-forming agents.
Lip Makeup Products?Lip makeup products, such as lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip liners, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals, including pigments, preservatives, and emollients.
Manicure Pedicure?Manicure and pedicure procedures often involve the use of various synthetic chemicals, including solvents, nail polishes, and nail adhesives.
Game Accessories?Game accessories, such as synthetic turf, athletic shoes, and other sports-related equipment, often incorporate various synthetic chemicals in their production.
Buckles?Buckles, commonly used as fasteners in clothing, accessories, and furniture, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings employed in their production.
Footwear?Footwear production often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, such as adhesives, dyes, and treatments, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Purses Luggage Hand Bags?Purses, luggage, and handbags are often manufactured using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, and various types of nylon.
Surface Finishing Of Leather?Surface finishing of leather often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, including dyes, resins, and finishing agents.
Airplanes And Helicopters?Airplanes and helicopters are significant sources of synthetic chemical contamination primarily through the use of aviation fuels, lubricants, and de-icing agents.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles?Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, utilize various synthetic chemicals in their manufacturing, operation, and maintenance processes.
Nitrogenous Fertilisers?Nitrogenous fertilizers are synthetic chemical compounds primarily used to enhance plant growth by supplying essential nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for photosynthesis and protein synthesis.
Cements?Cements are a composite material primarily used as a binding agent in construction applications, formed by the calcination of limestone and clay minerals at high temperatures.
Clay Wares?Clay wares are ceramic products made from natural clay, often utilized in various construction applications such as tiles, bricks, and sanitary ware.
Glass Coatings?Glass coatings are synthetic chemical formulations applied to glass surfaces to enhance properties such as durability, UV resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
Silica Glass?Silica glass, primarily composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), is widely used in various applications, including windows, glass facades, and insulation materials.
Nanotechnology?Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at the molecular or atomic level, typically within the range of 1 to 100 nanometers.
Mining Or Quarrying?Mining and quarrying operations can lead to synthetic chemical contamination through the release of various pollutants associated with the extraction and processing of minerals.
Coating Compositions?Coating compositions, which include paints, sealants, and varnishes, are formulated with a variety of synthetic chemicals such as solvents, resins, pigments, and additives.
Leather Tanning?Leather tanning is a process that transforms raw animal hides into durable leather through the application of various chemicals, including chromium salts, aldehydes, and vegetable tannins.
Sludge Treatment?Sludge treatment involves the processing of waste materials generated from wastewater treatment plants, which often contain a variety of organic and inorganic substances.
Water, Wastewater, & Sewage Treatment?Water, wastewater, and sewage treatment processes are critical for managing and mitigating pollutants in water systems.
Methamphetamine enters the brain and triggers a cascading release of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. To a lesser extent methamphetamine acts as a dopaminergic and adrenergic reuptake inhibitor and in high concentrations as a monamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). The mechanism of action involved in producing the beneficial behavioral changes seen in hyperkinetic children receiving methamphetamine is unknown.
Methamphetamine enters the brain and triggers a cascading release of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. To a lesser extent methamphetamine acts as a dopaminergic and adrenergic reuptake inhibitor and in high concentrations as a monamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). The mechanism of action involved in producing the beneficial behavioral changes seen in hyperkinetic children receiving methamphetamine is unknown.
Nobuyuki Shigetoh, Hiroshi Nakayama, Jinsei Miyazaki, Tadayasu Mitsumata, “Labelling colors for detecting cocaine or methamphetamine, method of preparing the same and detector for cocaine or methamphetamine.” U.S. Patent US5571727, issued October, 1981.
MSDS
Not Available
General References
Schepers RJ, Oyler JM, Joseph RE Jr, Cone EJ, Moolchan ET, Huestis MA: Methamphetamine and amphetamine pharmacokinetics in oral fluid and plasma after controlled oral methamphetamine administration to human volunteers. Clin Chem. 2003 Jan;49(1):121-32. [PubMed: 12507968]
McGregor C, Srisurapanont M, Jittiwutikarn J, Laobhripatr S, Wongtan T, White JM: The nature, time course and severity of methamphetamine withdrawal. Addiction. 2005 Sep;100(9):1320-9. [PubMed: 16128721]
Bennett BA, Hollingsworth CK, Martin RS, Harp JJ: Methamphetamine-induced alterations in dopamine transporter function. Brain Res. 1998 Jan 26;782(1-2):219-27. [PubMed: 9519266]
Hasan AA, Ciancio S: Relationship between amphetamine ingestion and gingival enlargement. Pediatr Dent. 2004 Sep-Oct;26(5):396-400. [PubMed: 15460293]
Ko BJ, Suh S, Suh YJ, In MK, Kim SH, Kim JH: (1S,2S)-1-Methylamino-1-phenyl-2-chloropropane: Route specific marker impurity of methamphetamine synthesized from ephedrine via chloroephedrine. Forensic Sci Int. 2012 Sep 10;221(1-3):92-7. doi: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2012.04.008. Epub 2012 May 2. [PubMed: 22554873]
![Amine oxidase [flavin-containing] A structure](https://cdn.rcsb.org/images/structures/2bxr_assembly-1.jpeg)
![Amine oxidase [flavin-containing] B structure](https://cdn.rcsb.org/images/structures/1gos_assembly-1.jpeg)
