When taken methamphetamine and crystal meth create a false sense of energy and well--being; therefore, users tend to push their bodies further and faster than they are meant to go. Most of the pleasurable effects result from the release of high levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter involved in motor function, the experience of pleasure, and motivation.
Meth users can experience a severe mental and physical breakdown when the effects of the drug wear off. Since continued use of the drug decreases appetite, users can go through extreme weight loss. They can also experience hyperactivity, nausea, disturbed sleep patterns, irritability, increased aggressiveness, and delusions of power. Other more serious effects may include paranoia and anxiety, hallucinations, confusion, and insomnia.
In the long term, methamphetamine abuse can cause irreversible harm, such as damaged blood vessels in the brain or an irregular heartbeat that can cause heart attack or death, or lung, kidney, and liver damage. Addicts may also suffer brain damage, including an inability to grasp abstract thoughts and memory loss. Addicts who recover are usually subject to extreme mood swings and memory gaps.
Short--Term Effects of Methamphetamine Abuse
• Dilation of pupils
• Loss of appetite
• Increased body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate
• Nausea
• Irregular sleep patterns
• Panic and psychosis
• Irritability, hyperexcitability, and hallucinations
• Erratic, bizarre, and sometimes violent behavior
• Seizures, convulsions, and death from high doses
Long--Term Effects of Methamphetamine Abuse
• Permanent damage to blood vessels in the brain and heart
• Damage to the brain similar to stroke, epilepsy, or Alzheimer's disease
• Lung, kidney, and liver damage
• High blood pressure, leading to strokes, heart attacks, and death
• Destruction of tissues in the nose if the drug is sniffed
• Weight loss and malnutrition
• Respiratory problems if smoked
• Severe tooth decay
• Infection diseases if injected
• Apathy, disorientation, and confusion
• Psychosis
• Strong psychological dependence
• Depression
When people abuse methamphetamine, it usually takes over their lives in varying degrees. The three categories of meth abuse are: low--intensity methamphetamine abuse, binge methamphetamine abuse, and high--intensity methamphetamine abuse. Sometimes, it is difficult to face one's problems; however, the consequences of meth abuse are always worse than the problem one is trying to run away from. The answer is to get the facts and not turn to meth in the first place. Follow us for more information and resources on drug abuse and treatment.
