Effects of continuous training on modulating oxidative status and pulmonary toxicity in methamphetamine-dependent rats

Background. The lung is likely the main target of injuries related to methamphetamine. This study examined the effects of six weeks of continuous training on the oxidative status of rats with chronic lung toxicity induced by methamphetamine. Methods. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight. Methamphetamine treatment was administered twice daily for six weeks. In the first week, each dose was intraperitoneally injected with 10mg/kg of methamphetamine. From the second to the sixth week, the injection dose increased by 1mg/kg until it reached 15mg/kg in the sixth week. The study protocol consisted of six weeks of moderate-intensity continuous training on a treadmill for 60 minutes per day, five times per week. During the initial three weeks, the speed was set at 60% of the maximum running speed, which was increased to 70% for the remaining three weeks. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA with a significance level of P≤0.05. Results. The results demonstrated that methamphetamine usage enhances the expression of serotonin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in comparison to the control group (P≤0.001). Compared to the methamphetamine group, the training group, and the combination of the methamphetamine and training groups, the expression of genes encoding serotonin, SOD, and MDA significantly declined in all three groups (P≤0.001). Conclusion. Pulmonary toxicity and free radical production resulting from methamphetamine use may cause damage to lung tissues in individuals with lung diseases. Practical Implications. Training as a beneficial strategy can reduce the harmful consequences of methamphetamine use.