Crystal methamphetamine is a stimulant, meaning it speeds up the signals traveling between the brain and body. Compared to amphetamine/speed, it is stronger, more easily addictive, and therefore has more harmful side effects.
Meth usually occurs as small, dense, clear crystals that look like ice. It can also be found as a white or brownish powder with a strong odor and bitter taste.
How does methamphetamine affect the brain?
Methamphetamine stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain - dopamine is involved in controlling emotions such as motivation, concentration, pleasure and more.
How is meth consumed?
Methamphetamine is usually smoked (the effects are felt almost immediately) or injected (the effects start in 15 to 30 seconds). It can also be swallowed (it takes 15 to 20 minutes for the effect to start) or inhaled (it is felt in 3-5 minutes).
Effects
Since all drug use carries some risk, caution and awareness are important before taking.
The effect of meth can last up to 12 hours and it works in the most different ways. Its general effects are:
A sense of pleasure and confidence
Increased alertness and energy
Dilated pupils and dry mouth
Grinding of teeth and excessive sweating
Rapid heartbeat and breathing
Decreased appetite
Sexual arousal
There is an increased risk of the following problems when injecting drugs:
Tetanus
Infections
Vein damage
Sharing needles increases the risk of:
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
HIV and AIDS
Comedown
After using meth, it takes several days for your body to recover. During this period, the following symptoms may develop:
Insomnia and fatigue
Headache, dizziness and blurred vision
Paranoia, hallucinations and confusion
Irritability and lack of character
Taking depressant drugs such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or cannabis to counteract these effects can lead to a cycle of dependence on both drugs.
Overdose
In case of taking a large amount or a strong dose, the risk of overdose increases. Signs of methamphetamine overdose are:
Rapid heartbeat and chest pain
Breathing problems
Free and uncontrolled cycle
General agitation, confusion, clumsiness
A sudden, severe headache
Loss of consciousness
Stroke, heart attack or death
If you experience any of these symptoms while under the influence of meth, call an ambulance immediately.
Long-term Effects
Regular use of meth is characterized by:
Extreme weight loss due to loss of appetite
The problems of the house
Dry mouth and dental problems
Reduced immunity
Breathing problems
Muscle tension
Heart and kidney problems
Increased risk of stroke
Concentration problems
Depression
Anxiety and paranoia
Financial, professional or social problems
Dependency
People who use meth regularly can quickly become addicted to the drug. Addicted users feel that it takes more to perform even normal activities such as work, study and socializing, or just getting through the day.
After long-term use, it is very difficult to get rid of meth, because the body has to get used to functioning without it. Abstinence symptoms partially disappear after a week, and after a month they are almost no longer felt. During this period, the addicted person feels the following symptoms:
A strong desire to use meth
Increased appetite
Confusion and irritability
Aches and pains in the body
Exhaustion
Restless sleep and nightmares
Anxiety, depression and paranoia
Mixing Methamphetamine with Other Substances
Taking metamphetamines with any other type of substance can have unpredictable and dangerous effects on us:
Meth + speed or ecstasy: a huge strain on the heart and other parts of the body, which can lead to a stroke.
Meth + alcohol, cannabis or benzodiazepines: huge burden on the body and high probability of overdose. The stimulant effects of meth can mask the effects of depressant substances, such as benzodiazepines, and increase the risk of overdose.