METHAMPHEDAMINE

DEFINED

Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that dramatically affects the central nervous system.  The drug is made easily in clandestine laboratories with relatively inexpensive over-the-counter ingredients.  These factors combine to make methamphetamine a drug with high potential for widespread abuse.
Methamphetamine is commonly known as "speed," "meth," and "chalk."  In its smoked form it is often referred to as "ice," "crystal," "crank," and "glass."  It is a white, odorless, bitter-tasting crystalline powder that easily dissolves in water or alcohol.  

Methamphetamine comes in various forms and can be smoked, snorted, orally ingested, or injected.  The drug alters moods in different ways, depending on how it is taken.

The effects of methamphetamine can last 6 to 8 hours.   After the initial "rush," there is typically a state of high agitation that in some individuals can lead to violent behavior.

"Tweakers," which are referred to those who are at the most dangerous state of methamphetamine abuse, is a methamphetamine user who is tweaking. This methamphetamine abuser probably has not slept in 3-15 days and, consequently, the symptoms would be irritability and paranoia. A tweaker does not need provocation to behave or react violently, but confrontation increases the chances of a violent reaction. If the tweaker is also using alcohol, his negative feelings and associated dangers intensify.

SYMPTOMS

1. Euphoric "high" state (excessively happy)
2. Paranoia
3. Decreased appetite
4. Increased physical activity
5. Anxiety, shaking hands, nervousnes
6. Incessant talking
7. Rapid eye movement
8. Increased body temperature (can rise as high as 108 degrees and cause death)
9. Dilated pupils
10. Sweating not related to physical activity
11. Weight loss
12. Strong body odor
13. Shadows under the eyes
14. Dry or itchy skin
15. Pale complexion
16. Acne/Acne-type sores
17. Irritable and moody (mood swings)
18. Picking at skin or hair
19. Aggressive or violent behavior
20. Depression (withdrawal/tolerance effect)
21. Severe nail biting
22. Nose bleeds, nasal perforations
23. Dermatitis around the mouth
24. Lack of personal hygiene

HEALTH RISKS

1. Dependence and addiction psychosis
   • Paranoia
   • Hallucinations
   • Mood disturbances
   • Repetitive motor activity
2. Stroke
3. Weight loss
4. Dental destruction

GETTING HELP

Proper treatment for methamphetamine addiction is effective. 

If you or a loved one may be suffering from the effects of methamphetamine abuse, call Alpine Treatment Services today.

RELATED ARTICLES
http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/DrugIssue/Meth/story.sara.chapter2.html
http://www.endmethnow.org/

Source(s): National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), the FDA, drugstv.com,
Meth Awareness and Prevention Project of SD