Kentucky Rural Stimulant Use: A Comparison of Methamphetamine and Other Stimulant Users

Population based surveys suggest that methamphetamine use is increasing. However, little is known about stimulant use in rural areas. Given the lack of data regarding rural stimulant use, particularly methamphetamine use, and the continuing problems associated with stimulant drug use, the purpose of this study was to examine rural stimulant use in Kentucky. Of 225 rural stimulant-using participants surveyed, 76% (n = 170) reported lifetime use of methamphetamine. Rural methamphetamine users differed from other rural stimulant users on demographic characteristics, health, and drug use histories. These results suggest that differences exist between rural stimulant users and that clinicians may need to consider these differences when planning treatment and rehabilitation strategies.