The effect of adding amantadine to the matrix intervention on craving in methamphetamine‑dependent people: a randomized controlled trial

Background The current study aimed to investigate the utility of amantadine add-on therapy to matrix model intervention (MMI) to control craving in methamphetamine users.Methods The current randomized clinical trial was conducted on 64 methamphetamine dependents who were under MMI and randomly assigned to one of the intervention groups of receiving daily dose of 100–300 mg amantadine for 8 weeks (n = 32), versus placebo (n = 32). The individuals’ craving status was assessed using the Cocaine Craving Questionnaire-Brief (CCQ-B) at baseline, weekly for 8 weeks and then, monthly until the 6th month. The patients’ depression and anxiety was evaluated at baseline and by the end of the intervention using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Methamphetamine use frequency and drug-related adverse effects were evaluated.Results CCQ-B and HADS assessments led to significantly improved scores in both the intervention and control groups (p < 0.05). The comparison of the groups revealed remarkably less craving (p < 0.01) and anxiety (p < 0.01) scores and fewer rate of methamphetamine use (p < 0.01) in amantadine-treated subjects. Insignificant adverse effects were notified by the comparison of the groups (p = ns).Conclusion Amantadine add-on therapy to MMI for 8 weeks could successfully lead to decreased craving for methamphetamine use as well as improved mood.