Episode 37 - Stimulant Withdrawal

Episode 37 - Stimulant Withdrawal

Ever wondered if stimulants like methamphetamine have a withdrawal syndrome? Turns out, they do. In this episode of 'Addiction in Emergency Medicine and Acute Care', Dr. Casey Grover sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of stimulant withdrawal. Many patients report feeling awful after stopping stimulant use, describing symptoms that include fatigue, strange dreams, sleep disturbances, increased appetite, and even agitation. But how do you diagnose it, and more importantly, how do you treat it? Dr.

Grover dives into these questions, breaking down the four key criteria for diagnosis and discussing effective treatment options like cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management. He also highlights the importance of addressing substance use disorders as a whole, especially in the high-stakes environment of emergency medicine. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone looking to understand more about addiction, this episode offers invaluable insights into the patient experience and the complexities of stimulant withdrawal.