What is Methamphetamine

Crystal Meth is the street name for the drug Methamphetamine. Taking this drug increases alertness, energy, and concentration. In high doses this can induce euphoria, increased libido, and enhanced self esteem. Plus, the risk of addiction is very high as the drug releases dopamine in the brain that causes all the above.

Physical effects

There are many physical effects which Methamphetamine can cause including hyperactivity, dilated pupils and anorexia. Also, there is the issue of restlessness, dry mouth, headaches, flushing and hypotension, hyperthermia, diarrhoea, constipation, dizziness, blurred vision, insomnia, twitching, itchy skin, acne, and in high doses convolutions, heart attacks, strokes and death.

Withdrawal symptoms

The withdrawal symptoms experienced from Methamphetamine include depression, fatigue, increased appetite, anxiety, headaches, irritability, excessive sleeping (hypersomnia), vivid or lucid dreams and suicidal thoughts. Also, long term use may cause ongoing depression, serious heart disease, anxiety and violent behaviours and suicide. As well as this, Methamphetamine is neurotoxic. With long term use this can increase the risk for Parkinson’s disease or a long-lasting psychosis similar to schizophrenia. Methamphetimine users may lose their teeth very quickly informally known as meth mouth. Lastly, meth mouth is a combination of drug induced psychological and physiological changes resulting in xerostomia (dry mouth), frequent consumption of high calorie, carbonated beverages and teeth grinding.

Depression

Finally, methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug and the recovery process is difficult. A relapse could happen more frequently as the drug induces hyper-stimulation. However, when the drug isn’t in the system the onset of depression can be very common.

Please also see our page on drug dependency in general.

Call the Haynes Clinic on 01462 851414