Meth Addiction
Meth Addiction
Table of Contents
What Is Meth?
Origin of Methamphetamine
Amphetamine, methamphetamine’s parent drug, was first created in 1887 in Germany, but it was not widely used as a medication for asthma, bronchitis, and other upper respiratory conditions until the 1920s when it was made available in America.Methamphetamine, on the other hand, was created in Japan in 1919, although it was not widely used until World War II. At this time, it was primarily used by soldiers on both sides to suppress their appetites and reduce the symptoms of fatigue.2
What is Meth Like?
Meth takes the form of a clear to white, odorless, crystal-shaped powder that can be dissolved in water or alcohol. Because of its crystalline appearance, it is sometimes referred to as crystal meth.When dissolved in water or alcohol, meth can then be injected directly into the bloodstream. This allows it to be quickly absorbed into the central nervous system. Meth is considered to be long-lasting compared to other recreational drugs, such as cocaine.
What is Crystal Meth?
Although the two terms are often used interchangeably, there is a difference. Crystal meth is a distilled, more potent form of meth that can increase someone’s misuse. Because of its extreme potency, the high lasts for much longer than normal, and the risk of overdose is significantly higher as well.What Is Meth Used for?
Medical Uses of Meth
How Else Is Meth Used?
Other times, the powder will be formed into a “rock” which will then be smoked or, in some cases, eaten.
Different Street Names for Meth
What Are the Side Effects of Meth Use?
Meth increases the amount of dopamine in the brain while simultaneously increasing the user’s blood pressure and heart rates. Meth substance abuse symptoms and side effects can occur with the first use of the drug, and they will continue to worsen the longer that a person uses the drug.
Short-Term Side Effects
- Rapid breathing
- Increased or rapid heart rate
- Irregular heart rate
- Increased blood pressure and body temperature
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Inhibited sleep or disrupted sleep patterns
- Erratic, aggressive, or violent behavior
Long-Term Side Effects
- Severe damage to the coronary system and brain
- High blood pressure that can cause strokes, heart attacks, and death
- Liver, kidney, and lung damage
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations
- Mood disturbances
- Violent behaviors that can last for months or years
- Itching resulting in severe sores
- Osteoporosis, which can lead to severe dental problems
What is Meth Cut With?
Can Cutting Meth Increase Risk of Overdose?
Understanding Meth Addiction
Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction
There are both physical signs and behavioral signs of meth substance abuse disorder to watch out for. Some of the most common meth addiction signs include:
- Paranoia
- Hyperactivity
- Dilated pupils
- Rotting teeth
- Skin sores
- Extreme weight loss
- Agitation or aggression
Meth Overdose and Withdrawal
Meth Overdose Signs
- Trouble breathing
- Signs of a heart attack or stroke
- Seizures
- A sudden plummeting in heart rate or blood pressure
- A fever
- Severe stomach pain
- Loss of consciousness
- Sudden violent or paranoid behavior
Meth Withdrawal Symptoms
Because meth is such a potent drug, meth withdrawal symptoms are severe and can be dangerous. It is recommended to undergo medical detox to help with the most severe of the symptoms in a safe manner. These symptoms can include:
- Dehydration
- Headaches
- Muscle pain and spasms
- Appetite changes
- Intense cravings
- Psychosis
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Insomnia or irregular sleep
- Depression
- Cognitive issues
Treatment for Meth Addiction
It is important to know that meth addiction recovery is possible. Meth abuse or meth addiction rehab almost always begins with medically supervised detox, and then other services are offered depending on what the patient’s needs are.
Meth Addiction Treatment Options
- Medically assisted detox from meth
- Medication
- Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- The Matrix Model
- Contingency Management Intervention
- 12-step programs
Get Help for Meth Addiction at Arrow Passage Recovery
Our meth addiction treatment program at Arrow Passage Recovery prides itself on its ability to create a unique and effective treatment program for everyone that we work with. We will be with you every step of the way during your or your loved one’s recovery. Please contact us today if you have any questions or want to get started in the recovery process.
Resources
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/what-methamphetamine
- https://drugpolicy.org/drug-facts/what-is-meth
- https://www.rxlist.com/desoxyn-drug.htm#side_effects
- https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/methamphetamine
- https://www.samhsa.gov/meth
- https://www.webmd.com/connect-to-care/addiction-treatment-recovery/methamphetamine/signs-of-a-meth-overdose-and-what-to-do