Methamphetamine is a very addictive stimulant drug that activates certain
parts of brain. Methamphetamine is chemically similar to amphetamine,
but the central nervous system effects are much stronger. Both Methamphetamine
and amphetamine have only limited therapeutic uses, primarily in the treatment
of obesity.
Methamphetamine is produced in illegal laboratories and has a major potential
for addiction. Methamphetamine is referred to by many names such as speed,
meth, ice, glass and crank.
Methamphetamine releases high levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which
speeds up brain cell function, enhancing mood and body movement. It also
appears to have a neurotoxic effect, damaging brain cells that contain dopamine
as well as serotonin, another neurotransmitter. Over time, methamphetamine
appears to cause reduced levels of dopamine, which can result in symptoms
like those of Parkinson’s disease, a severe movement disorder.
Methamphetamine is taken orally or intranasally (snorting the powder), by intravenous injection, and by smoking. Immediately after smoking or intravenous injection, the methamphetamine user experiences an intense sensation, called a rush that lasts minutes to hours depending on its strength and is described as extremely pleasurable. Oral or sniffing the drug produces a high, but not an intense rush. Users may become addicted quickly, and use it with increasing frequency and in increasing doses.
Methamphetamine increases the heart rate and blood pressure and can damage the blood vessels in the brain, causing strokes. Other effects of methamphetamine include respiratory problems, irregular heartbeat. Its use can result in cardiovascular collapse and death. An addiction to meth presents a very serious problem not only for the user but to close friends and family. If you have a loved one hooked on the drug contact us so we can assist you in finding the right methamphetamine treatment program.