Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine, sometimes called meth or crystal meth, is a highly addictive substance. It causes the brain to release a large amount of dopamine, which creates feelings of joy and a dependency on the substance. It also affects the central nervous system. It is one of the most highly addictive substances.

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Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth, triggers a large release of dopamine in the brain. It’s created using pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient in cold medicines. When someone uses meth, they get a huge burst of energy and self-assurance, which can push them to want more, even after only trying it once.

People become dependent on meth because the dopamine surge changes how their brain’s reward system operates. The meth high becomes the sole source of good feelings for them. As this takes hold, they start craving that high more and more, pushing them go through drastic measures to get more meth. This can make it the central focus of their life, and they might begin overlooking other essential things like cleanliness.

Putting an end to meth use can be incredibly challenging. Those who are addicted to meth can become easily irritated, feel highly paranoid, and might even have hallucinations. They could go without sleep for days, shed weight, and cope with various other symptoms that make quitting extremely demanding.

Treatment for Methamphetamine

Breaking free from meth addiction is one of the toughest challenges a person can face. Stopping meth suddenly, known as quitting cold turkey, is highly risky. The symptoms of withdrawal can lead to hazardous and impulsive behavior, and the physical effects only make matters worse.

Getting over meth addiction calls for supervised detoxification. In the initial stages, individuals will experience a crash, which happens when their body craves meth but doesn’t get it. These are milder forms of withdrawal symptoms and can bring about mood changes, increased stress, and feelings of sadness, among others.

As withdrawal sets in, close supervision becomes essential. Additional consequences of meth withdrawal include experiencing psychosis, memory loss, stomach discomfort, inability to sleep, and deep feelings of sadness. These symptoms can also overlap with other conditions a meth addict might have. Since there are no prescription medications that replicate meth, those in withdrawal will have to rely on supportive care to help ease the discomfort.

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