Methamphetamine
facts
General Facts about Methamphetamine:
Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Crystal methamphetamine is a form of the drug that looks like glass fragments or shiny, bluish-white rocks. It is chemically similar to amphetamine, a drug used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder.
Other common names for methamphetamine include blue, crystal, ice, meth, and speed.
Side Effects of Methamphetamine:
increased wakefulness and physical activity
decreased appetite
faster breathing
rapid and/or irregular heartbeat
increased blood pressure and body temperature
increased risk of contracting infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis B and C
alter judgment and decision-making leading to risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex, which also increases risk for infection
extreme weight loss
addiction
severe dental problems ("meth mouth")
intense itching, leading to skin sores from scratching
anxiety
changes in brain structure and function
confusion
memory loss
sleeping problems
violent behavior
paranoia—extreme and unreasonable distrust of others
hallucinations—sensations and images that seem real though they aren't
Methamphetamine and the Body:
Brain: Methamphetamine increases the amount of the natural chemical dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is involved in body movement, motivation, and reinforcement of rewarding behaviors. Use increases risk of stroke
Heart: Irregular heartbeat
Teeth: Cracked teeth and tooth loss
Lungs: Increase risk for lung diseases
Immune System: lowered resistance to illnesses
Skin: Sores from compulsive skin picking
(NIDA)
warning signs
Signs of Methamphetamine Use:
Hyperactivity
Twitching, facial tics, jerky movements
Paranoia
Dilated pupils
Noticeable and sudden weight loss
Skin sores
Rapid eye movement
Reduced appetite
Agitation
Burns, particularly on the lips or fingers
Erratic sleeping patterns
Rotting teeth
Outbursts or mood swings
Extreme weight loss
Signs of Addiction:
Using meth even in situations that are dangerous to the individual and/or others, such as overdosing or driving under the influence
Neglecting professional, academic, or personal responsibilities
Social or interpersonal problems caused by meth use
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit or not using meth
Requiring more and more meth to get the same feeling (tolerance)
Using larger amounts of meth for longer amounts of time
Repeated failed attempts to control or quit use altogether
Spending large amounts of time abusing meth
Developing physical or psychological problems due to meth use
Giving up activities in effort to use or get meth
Experiencing drug cravings
