Comparative evaluation of amphetamine and cannabis patients’ clinical and investigational parameters in Saudi Arabia

Long-term use of psychostimulants results in cognitive, behavioral, and physiological consequences. We aimed to compare the effects of amphetamines and cannabis on clinical, hematological, biochemical, cytological, and dermatological parameters at Eradah Hospital, Saudi Arabia. Sixty-two male patients treated for substance abuse—amphetamines or cannabis—were divided into two groups: (1) cannabis abusers (n = 31) and (2) amphetamine abusers (n = 31). Blood samples were collected and analyzed for complete blood count (CBC), liver, and kidney function tests. Sputum samples were collected for cytological evaluation. SPSS software was used for data analysis and presentation. Amphetamine abusers were slightly older than cannabis users (34.48 vs. 32.77 years; P = 0.500). They showed a significantly longer duration of drug abuse compared to the cannabis group (7.06 vs. 4.90 years; P = 0.025). The amphetamine group showed higher leukocyte counts (P = 0.012), erythrocyte counts (P = 0.009), hematocrit levels (P = 0.002), monocyte counts (P = 0.004), and serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (P < 0.001), AST (P = 0.029), ALP (P = 0.029), creatinine, and BUN (P < 0.001 for both). Moreover, cytological changes were more evident in amphetamine users, including increased nuclear size and double nucleation. In contrast, the cannabis group showed higher basophil counts (P = 0.001). No skin rash was seen in cannabis abusers, whereas 13% of amphetamine abusers exhibited dermatological findings. Amphetamine abusers demonstrated more extensive and severe systemic alterations than cannabis users among young Saudi males. These results underscore the importance of targeted public health education and harm reduction strategies aimed at amphetamine users.