Histological Changes in Adipose Tissue: An Alarm When Methamphetamine Is Targeted for Weight Loss Purposes

BACKGROUND: Methamphetamine (METH) may be administered for weight loss purposes and to understand the METH side-effects more in details, this study aimed at determining the effect of METH on changes in adipose tissue in experimental rats. METHODS: Forty five male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to three equal groups. Group 1 was experimental receiving METH [0.4 mg/kg, subcutaneously (S/C), 0.6 mL/rat] for 3 weeks, group 2 was the sham group receiving normal saline (0.6 mL/rat, S/C) and the 3(rd) group was the control receiving distilled water, identically. The elevated plus maze test was used to confirm cognitive impairment and distraction as anxiety and to verify addiction to METH by assessing the percent time spent in open arm (OAT), the percent time spent in closed arm (CAT), the percent time spent in central parts and head dipping over the side of the maze. Adipose tissue was assessed histologically 7, 14 and 21-days after interventions. RESULTS: A significant increase in anxiety level, and histologically inflammation, degeneration and necrosis in adipose tissue were visible after METH use. CONCLUSION: METH use resulted in a significant inflammation and necrosis in adipose tissue denoting to the dangers of METH use, when recreationally targeted for weight loss purposes.