Increases of CRF in the amygdala are responsible for reinstatement of methamphetamine-seeking behavior induced by footshock

►CRF receptor antagonist attenuated stress-induced methamphetamine-seeking behavior. ►The increased CRF levels in the amygdala may contribute to the reinstatement. ►METH self-administered rats show an increase in anxiety-like behavior on withdrawal. ►CRF receptor antagonists would be useful as a therapeutic agent for METH-dependence. ►The plasma CRF appears to have a potential as a diagnostic biomarker for craving.