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Crystal Meth AddictionMethamphetamine
Crystal meth addiction (methamphetamine), also known as “speed,” “meth” or “chalk” is classified as a Schedule II stimulant, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. In fact, the drug is very addictive because it increases the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter which stimulates brain cells. It produces more potent, long-lasting and harmful effects to the central nervous system. The drug in its legal form is only available by prescription, and that prescription may not be refilled. Familiar to many people are the small, dangerous and illegal labs that spring up to manufacture the drug for street distribution. Commonly the crystals, sometimes called “ice” because they look like ice, are smoked in pipes. Sometimes the drug is called “crystal.” The drug can also be taken orally, or its powder form can be snorted. Users can become addicted quickly and as they continue to abuse the drug, higher doses are needed, and increased frequency of use. Chronic abuse of this drug will alter brain function by damaging neuron cell endings. The neurons do not die, but the cell endings are cut back and may grow back, that process is limited by the damage.
Even Small Doses Very Dangerous
Crystal meth addiction alters the function of the dopamine system. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that stimulates cells in the brain and impacts mood and movement. Abuse of the drug leads to a decrease in motor skills, but of greater concern is that studies have shown that methamphetamine alters the areas of the brain connected to emotion and memory. Meth users can develop severe cognitive and emotional problems. Small doses of the drug can create dramatic physical effects in the user, such as rapid heart rate, irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, tremors, convulsions and increased respiration. Use of the drug can lead to cardiovascular failure and death. The side effects may also include insomnia, confusion, irritability, memory loss, anxiety and confusion. They may become delusional. Long-term users have known to become aggressive and shown symptoms of paranoia. They may also experience hallucinations.
The national Survey on Drug Use and Health (NASDUH) reported in 2005 that 10.4 million people aged 12 and older had tried methamphetamine at least once. The rate of annual and 30-day use of the drug had not changed from 2004 to 2005, but the number of people who had tried the drug at least once had declined from 4.9 to 4.3 percent. There have also been reported dramatic decreases in the illegal methamphetamine labs, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. However, there have been reported increases in the smuggling of larger amounts and purity of the drug from Mexico.
Other Information Resources on Crystal Meth Addiction
For more information on the effects of methamphetamine abuse and addiction, visit www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/methamphetamine.html. To find publicly-funded treatment facilities by state, visit
www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
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