CHANGE IN BLOOD CHEMISTRY, PRO-INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES, AND APOPTOTIC GENES FOLLOWING METHAMPHETAMINE USE IN EXPERIMENTAL RATS

Methamphetamine (METH) is a globally heavily abused illicit substance with epidemic levels worldwide. This study aimed to investigate changes in blood chemistry and pro-inflammatory cytokines following methamphetamine use in experimental rats. A total of forty-five female rats were randomly devoted to three equal groups of experimental receiving METH subcutaneously (0.4 mg/kg, in 0.6 mL volume) for 21 days, sham received similarly 0.6 mL normal saline, and the control received 0.6 mL distilled water, identically. The elevated plus-maze test was used to confirm cognitive and anxiety changes following METH use until three weeks. Blood chemistry and inflammatory cytokines were evaluated after METH use until 21 days. The results showed an increase in anxiety. The serum levels of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), interleukins of IL-15, IL-17, and adenosine deaminase xanthine oxidase levels were noted. However, white blood cell (WBC) count demonstrated a decreasing trend. There were no other changes in blood chemistry after METH use. It could be observed, however, that methamphetamine increases anxiety and makes some changes in blood chemistry and pro inflammatory cytokines. This study can help make better decisions about the prevention and even treatment of people taking methamphetamine.