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About 76 million people use psychostimulants, including illicit drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, as well as prescription stimulants. A new Journal of Forensic Sciences An Australian study is the first to present national data on the use of psychostimulants in young adults with fatal stroke.
Investigators found that between 2009 and 2016, users of psychostimulants accounted for nearly one-fifth of the 279 fatal stroke cases among adults aged 15 to 44, the majority of whom had evidence of consumption just before the fatal stroke.
Methamphetamine was overwhelmingly the drug in question. The median concentration of methamphetamine was similar to that reported for all methamphetamine-related deaths in Australia, but less than half that of deaths attributable solely to methamphetamine toxicity. This suggests that high concentrations are not essential for causing methamphetamine-related strokes.
Cases of haemorrhagic stroke involving other illicit and lawful psychostimulants have also been documented. No medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has been identified.
"This is the first study to show the major role that psychostimulants play in fatal strokes in young adults," said Professor Shane Darke, of the University of New South Wales. , in Australia. "All these deaths were preventable, however, users of these drugs seem largely unaware of the risk.Psychostimulant users and those who treat them should be aware of their high risk of stroke, which may have devastating consequences. "
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