The Growing Problem of Methamphetamine-Associated Heart Failure: Breaking Bad

This session will cover the emerging problem of methamphetamine-associated heart failure (MethHF). Methamphetamine use and addiction are increasing across the U.S. and globally, and for some users, the direct cardiotoxicity of this synthetic psychostimulant results in heart failure. The presentation of MethHF is often similar to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction; however, the management of MethHF is incredibly complex. In this session, speakers will provide an overview of methamphetamine, the clinical presentation of MethHF, considerations for navigating “traditional” medical therapies in MethHF, and strategies for treating addiction and heart failure in tandem. This session will be relevant to both clinical providers and researchers across the career spectrum, as MethHF is an underrecognized and understudied topic.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the antecedents and pathophysiology of methamphetamine-associated heart failure
• Evaluate management strategies for patients with methamphetamine-associated heart failure
• Identify areas for future research in methamphetamine-associated heart failure