<![CDATA[Methamphetamine is a synthetic stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Prolonged use of methamphetamine can lead to high levels of accumulation in the liver, potentially damaging hepatocytes and inducing fibrosis. This study aims to explore the impact of methamphetamine abuse on the liver depending on concentration levels and the duration of abuse by the evaluation of liver function, collagen type IV (CIV), and laminin (LN) levels. This case-control study involved 75 males with methamphetamine addiction who had been abusing the drug for 6-120 months and at different doses. Additionally, 75 healthy controls of matching ages (18-51) were in groups at the Medical City Department, Social Rehabilitation Center for Addictions, and the Medico-legal Institute in Baghdad from February to July 2024. The study measured biomarkers, including collagen type IV and laminin by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT), and albumin by Beckman Coulter automation system and the serum concentration of methamphetamine levels by Randox Evidence MultiSTAT Immnoanalyser (Drugs of Abuse (DOA) Toxplex Blood Array). The study revealed a significant increase in serum CIV, LN, AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT. It also revealed a correlation between liver enzymes and the duration and concentration of methamphetamine use. The study also demonstrated a positive correlation between CIV and LN levels. The study showed that methamphetamine had harmful effects on liver health. Collagen type IV and LN increased levels indicate progressive fibrosis associated with ongoing liver injury, showing a positive correlation with the duration of abuse and level of concentration of methamphetamine.]]>
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