Neurotransmitters and Cardiovascular Responses to Aerobic and Resistance Exercise in Men Addicted to Methamphetamine

Abstract

Background. This study aimed to examine serotonin, dopamine and cardiovascular responses to aerobic and resistance exercise in men addicted to methamphetamine during rehabilitation. Methods. Subjects were 10 men addicted to methamphetamine with an average age of 31.2 ± 6.2 years old, height: 173 ± 5.6 cm, weight: 73.66 ± 12.5 kg. In the first session the subjects were acquainted with the environment. The variables measured at the second session were physical and physiological characteristics. In the third and fourth sessions, projects to ensure the effectiveness of the pilot were conducted. In the fifth and sixth sessions which were spaced 7 days apart, aerobic and resistance exercises were carried out. The variables which were measured before and after exercise programs included heart rate, blood pressure and circulatory levels of serotonin and dopamine. Results. The increase in blood serotonin and dopamine levels after both aerobic and resistance exercise were significant (p .05). Conclusions. Both of these exercises can be used as valuable support factors in treatment of addiction. Keywords: physical activity, methamphetamine, neurotransmitter, blood pressure.