Meth Use

About Meth

Why does someone use?

Why NOT to use?

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For more information

The images presented in this section are of actual meth users. For more information, please visit: Faces of Meth.


About Meth

What is Meth?

Meth is a very addictive stimulant drug that can be smoked, injected, inhaled or swallowed. It activates certain systems in the brain. It is chemically related to amphetamine but, at comparable doses the effects of meth are much more potent, longer lasting, and more harmful to the central nervous system.

Coloring and form varies depending on raw materials used and lab procedures of production. Although there are multiple ways to produce Meth, most involve the use of toxic and volatile substances that can pose a threat to the surrounding area. An odor similar to that of cat urine and other offensive fumes often signify that an illegal Meth lab is in operation. When manufactured by amateurs, the production of Meth can be extremely dangerous and create harmful, toxic gases. One production method involves heating anhydrous ammonia - an extremely reactive ingredient that is prone to explosion. In fact, many illegal Meth labs are only discovered after fires or explosions occur due to the improper handling of these toxic chemicals. Clean-up is both hazardous and expensive.

 

 

Manufactured in makeshift labs using common household chemicals that can include but not limited to:

  • Fertilizer
  • Lithium
  • Bleach
  • Rubbing Alcohol
  • Iodine
  • Anti-freeze
  • Mineral Spirits
  • Camping Fuel
  • Rock Salt
  • Brake Cleaner
  • Gun Cleaner
  • Degreaser

Street names: Speed, meth, chalk, crystal ice, glass, crank or Tina.

“Designer Meth” is cut with a variety of candies, drinks, and other materials to smooth the chemically rough ingestion of the drug, especially for first timers. For example, “strawberry quick” is a concoction using meth and a powered drink mix to give a pink color and more palatable taste.

What does it do?

Like other amphetamines, meth induces a temporary state of alertness, increased energy, suppressed appetite and feelings of well being.

No matter how meth is used, it eventually ends up in the bloodstream where it is circulated throughout the brain. Meth can affect lots of brain structures, but the one it affects the most are the ones that contain a chemical called dopamine. The reason for this is the shape and size, and chemical structure of meth and dopamine are similar.

Dopamine is sometimes called the pleasure neurotransmitter because it helps you feel good from things like playing soccer, eating a big piece of chocolate, or riding a roller coaster.

 

 

How addictive is Meth?

Methamphetamine has a faster rate of addiction than many other drugs including marijuana or alcohol. Meth is extremely addictive. Some people report feeling addicted to meth after using it only one time.

Why does someone use?

Some people use it for the strong “rush” they get when they smoke or inject the drug. Other people use meth to help them lose weight or give them an energy boost so they can work more. Athletes and students sometimes begin using meth because it makes them feel like they are doing better in sports or schoolwork. At first, meth gives them more energy to practice sports and to study for longer periods of time.

Why NOT to use?

Effects on the body

  • Weakens immune system
  • Increased wakefulness
  • Agitation
  • Depression
  • Increased physical activity
  • Decreased appetite
  • Sudden and violent behavior
  • Increased respiration
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Hyperthermia
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Confusion
  • Tremors
  • Convulsions
  • Cardiovascular collapse
  • Death

Long-term effects may include paranoia, aggressiveness, extreme anorxeia, memory loss, visual and auditory hallucinations, delusions, and severe dental problems.

Transmission of HIV and hepatitis B and C can also be a consequence of methamphetamine abuse.

Effects on your appearance

 

 

 

The use of methamphetamine causes many lasting effects to your appearance. Some of the most common physical effects include:

  • Injection sites of meth use can have skin abscesses (pus-filled infections.)
  • Meth Mouth is a common condition among methamphetamine users. Poor hygiene, dry mouth from the chemicals in meth, and overall physical neglect result in rotten teeth. Some users lose teeth as they eat ordinary food like sandwiches. (www.justhinktwice.com)
  • Meth Bugs. Meth users sometimes feel like bugs are crawling all over their skin. They scratch until skin bleeds and scabs. “They scratch, pick and dig the spots, trying to relieve the itching. Many people feel a sensation of small bugs, known as “Meth Mites or Bugs”, moving right under their skin.”
 

 

How it affects relationships with family friends and loved ones

Many users reject anything and anyone who stands in their way of getting Meth, isolating themselves from parents, family, and friends. The do things that are unusually uncharacteristic for them… steal, lie and betray those close to them.

Children of Meth-addicted parents are often left to fend for themselves, causing intense emotional harm that can lay the foundation for behavioral problems, depression, and future substance abuse.

How it can affect your future

Scientists have discovered that even three years after long-time meth users had quit using the drug, their dopamine neurons were still damaged… Meaning the past user can not feel the natural pleasures or everyday life.

 

 

Get Help

IF YOU ARE IN TENNESSEE OR INDIANA
Centerstone offers help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year through our Triage Line staffed by our crisis team. All calls are completely confidential. Our toll-free number can assist a large number of callers at the same time, ensuring prompt attention to your situation. You will also be given information and access to services or programs you may need.

For immediate assistance in Tennessee, call toll-free: 800.681.7444
For immediate assistance in Indiana, call toll-free: 800.344.8802 or 800.832.5442

www.centerstone.org

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