Neurochemical, neurobiological and toxic effects of Amphetamine on memory consolidation. Review

Authors

  • Monika Toth Maastricht University

Keywords:

amphetamine, consolidation, memory, toxicity, neuroplasticity

Abstract

There is consistent evidence that amphetamine at therapeutic doses can improve attention and memory via its direct and indirect impact on several neurotransmitters and amino acids. However,acute and chronic amphetamine use can deplete endogenous antioxidants, cause oxidative stress and toxicity. Interestingly, based on models of long-term potentiation it has been proposed that neuroplasticity may be affected by amphetamine-induced changes leading to altered gene expression, a process required for consolidation of new memories. These connections however remain yet unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to investigate the drug’s impact on consolidation taking into account its pharmacodynamic, -kinetic and toxic properties. Conclusively, it seems that amphetamine may facilitate consolidation, and dopamine can mediate amphetamine-induced neurtoxic effects via an interaction between excitatory and inhibitory pathways.

Author Biography

Monika Toth, Maastricht University

Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Section Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology

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Published

2019-07-16

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Vol. 8 No. 1 (2019)

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