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Methamphetamine Addiction

by Matthew Baughman
Narconon Graduate 2001

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that effects the Central Nervous System. It has a very high potential for abuse. It is most regularly smoked or injected and is also snorted or taken orally. When the user injects or smokes the drug an intense but brief high results. If the user has snorted or taken the drug orally (by capsule) a longer lasting high is the result rather than a brief rush. Two forms of methamphetamine are dominant throughout the United States:

Crystal methamphetamine has a clear or translucent crystalline appearance, while common meth can range from a yellowish powder to reddish, blue or green in color.

Common Methamphetamine
Street Names: Speed, Zip, Go-Fast, Crank
Description: a white to dark brown powder or "chunk", with many variances in color, consistency and quality

Crystal Methamphetamine
Street Names: Ice, Crystal, Shards, Glass
Description: crystalline powder that is clear or almost transparent appearance

Methamphetamine has numerous effects on the user. It can quickly turn a person into an addict. An addiction to methamphetamines dissolves one's life and ultimately causes dysfunction in ordinary day-to-day living. Of course these are only the effects the user will face . In addition, the families, children and close friends of the methamphetamine addict are also heavily affected. Most hard hit are the children of parents with an addiction to methamphetamine, who are at high risk for abuse and neglect.

Crystal Methamphetamine is distinguishable in that it is most commonly smoked and produces an intense high that can last up to and beyond 24 hours after using. However, both forms are extremly addictive and produce severe cravings when the user has run out.

Methamphetamine in the last 10 years has become one of the most widely abused street drugs in our nation. It's use and abuse has devastating effects on the user's mind and body and more strikingly to anyone involved in the addict's life.

Short Term Effects

Heightened Senses, Sense of Well-Being, Exaggerated Confidence, Insomnia, Restlessness, Increased Heart Rate, Exacerbated Thought Patterns, Mis-Emotion

Long Term Effects

Chronic Insomnia, Weight Loss, Repetitive Behavior, Paranoia, Hallucinations, Inability to Cope, Halted or regressed personality development, Malnutrition, Anti-social Tendencies

Withdrawal Symptoms

Severe Craving, Restlessness, Disrupted sleeping patterns, Mental confusion, Depression

For more information on methamphetamine check: www.methabuse.net