One of the most addictive central nervous system stimulants used in the United States, methamphetamine is extremely powerful and dangerous. Methamphetamine (commonly called “crystal meth”) typically comes in the form of clear crystals in small baggies or balloons. It is commonly smoked, crushed into powder to be snorted, or injected.
Meth addiction is serious and has been making a comeback in prevalence among young people in recent years. Methamphetamine is produced using over-the-counter medications such as cold and flu tablets. Other substances present in most methamphetamine includes brake cleaner, rubbing alcohol, and ammonia. This is part of what makes meth addiction so dangerous – each batch is slightly different. Like cocaine and crack, meth is infamous for being addictive from the first use. Due to the variance in the properties of meth, trying it even just once can easily lead to meth addiction and a host of health issues. If you or someone you know is struggling with a serious drug addiction, contact a professional for guidance on how to best handle the situation.
At The Cornerstone Program, you can contact our drug rehab center or call us at (303) 690-0082 for a no-cost substance abuse evaluation.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction
Currently in America, opioids are often in the headlines, but methamphetamine is making a comeback. Meth is often made in rural areas in makeshift labs. Since it is known for being inexpensive, meth often attracts former cocaine users due to cost. Meth also builds tolerance quickly, leading to higher and higher doses of the drug being taken over time. If you think someone you care about is suffering with meth addiction, here are some common signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for:
- Very talkative
- Suffering paranoid delusions
- Seeming nervous or on edge
- Sudden weight loss
- Rapid breathing
- Dilated pupils
The Effects of Meth Addiction on the Body and Mind
Methamphetamine takes a heavy toll on the body and mental health of the user and it is always recommended that people struggling with meth addiction seek addiction treatment. Meth users face many physical and mental health effects, one of which is issues with teeth and gums. This is caused by the body using calcium to detoxify the chemicals in amphetamines. Other long term effects methamphetamine addiction are:
- Increased risk of Parkinson’s
- Decay of teeth and gums (meth mouth)
- Brain and heart damage
- Anorexia
- Stroke
- Severe memory loss
- Breathing problems
Meth Addiction Withdrawals
Withdrawal symptoms from long-term use of meth can include:
- Depression
- Irritability and mood swings
- Need for sleep
- Sudden increase in appetite
It is important to note that while methamphetamine use alone does not necessarily require a medical detox, it is sometimes recommended if other narcotics are being used in addition to meth. The best way to know for sure is to get a substance abuse evaluation done by a substance abuse counselor or doctor trained in addiction.
Next Steps
Using methamphetamines is incredibly dangerous and users run a real risk of addiction and long-term health damage. Seeking an addiction treatment program and following up with support groups for drug addiction is recommended. If you or a loved one is dealing with methamphetamine abuse, it is vital that you seek treatment options as soon as possible. Here at The Cornerstone Program, we know it can be scary and isolating to be dealing with addiction and seeking treatment. We are here to help. As the leading substance abuse treatment center for teens and young adults in the Denver area, we have the tools needed to give people the help they need. For a free evaluation of your situation and guidance on the next best steps, give us a call at 303-690-0082 or contact our drug rehab center in Denver.