Methamphetamine – more commonly known as meth, crystal or ice – is a highly addictive, stimulant drug.
An estimated 7.4 million people in the world are dependent on it or “addicted” to it. They face multiple health risks including paranoia, feeling suicidal, heart problems, strokes, injuries from accidents, and a higher risk of early death. But there are no medications approved anywhere in the world to treat meth dependence.
Now, a cheap, safe and readily available medicine that has been used to treat depression for years is showing promise. Our trial of mirtazapine, just published in JAMA Psychiatry, shows people who take it cut back their meth use.
