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Methamphetamine Addiction Information

Methamphetamine is a synthetic amphetamine. It has limited medicinal use and is generally illegal to manufacture, distribute or possess. Methamphetamine is a very powerful narcotic and thus habit forming. Methamphetamine can be swallowed in pill form, sniffed in powder form, injected intravenously or intra-muscularly or smoked. Methamphetamine is known on the street as:

Effects of Methamphetamine on the Human Body

Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug that increases dopamine and adrenaline production and blocks dopamine transporter (DAT), a protein which binds to excess dopamine and stores it for future use. This leaves large amounts of dopamine and adrenaline floating around the central nervous system, producing a dramatic stimulant effect. Methamphetamine is frequently abused because of the feelings of euphoria and energy it creates.

Long-Term Effects of Methamphetamine Use

As an individual continues to use methamphetamine, the body very quickly develops a tolerance to its effects and increasing amounts of methamphetamine must be taken to produce the same effects. Long-term use of methamphetamine has a host of undesirable effects, including severe addiction, compulsive behavior, depression, acne, tooth decay and sexual dysfunction.

Methamphetamine Rehab and Detox Considerations

Due to its illegal nature, methamphetamine addiction is typically devastating for the user and his/her loved ones. Often times, the methamphetamine addict is compelled to enter treatment because of criminal proceedings. Methamphetamine is particularly addictive because it stimulates reward centers in the brain. Methamphetamine dependence is swift and severe, and as a result, withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of opiate drugs. Symptoms may include psychological cravings, anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue, psychosis and insomnia; it is absolutely necessary that methamphetamine addicts undergo properly supervised drug detox prior to treatment for meth addiction.