NCJ Number
130208
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 3 Dated: (May 1991) Pages: 754-764
Date Published
1991
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Fifty-eight methamphetamine (MAMP) abusers were surveyed to determine the interactions between alcohol and MAMP.
Abstract
Using in-depth interviews with the technique of psychophysiological detection of deception, the subjects were assessed regarding the truthfulness of their abuse histories. Information was collected on personal or criminal histories, alcohol preference, and extent of drinking behavior before, during, and after MAMP abuse. Symptoms of the somatic disorder, mental disorder, or both were determined with research diagnostic criteria. A strong correlation was found between the age, the abusing years, the maximum dosage, the mean interval of abuse, the alcohol preference, the existence of coadministration with alcohol under MAMP abuse, alcohol intake upon withdrawal of MAMP, and the manifestation of somatic or mental disorders. There was no correlation between the type of occupation, previous criminality, and body weight. The characteristics of MAMP abusers are consistent with three factors: years of abuse with MAMP, MAMP-induced somatic and mental disorders, and coadministration of alcohol with MAMP. These results suggest that the combined abuse of MAMP and alcohol aggravates somatic and mental disorders and that alcohol plays an important role in the fatal effect of MAMP, especially from small doses. 3 tables, 3 figures, and 46 references (Author abstract modified)