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Crystal Meth Addiction
Methamphetamine, known commonly
as "speed" or "crystal meth,"
is an addictive stimulant that overstimulates
certain systems in the brain. Closely related
to amphetamine in chemical make-up, crystal
meth affects the central nervous system much
stronger, making it a popular street drug. While
use of crystal meth plummeted in the 1970s,
it has reappeared in recent years and is once
more a serious problem.
Crystal meth is highly addictive
and has a high potential for abuse and psychological
dependence. The fast, powerful high tapers off
quickly, leaving the user with a strong desire
to do more crystal meth and making this illegal
street drug a lucrative business for those who
manufacture it. Crystal meth can be smoked,
snorted or injected.
One of the most potentially dangerous
drugs, crystal meth seriously affects the brain,
releasing high levels of dopamine, which stimulates
brain cells, enhancing mood and body movement.
Over time, crystal meth reduces the levels of
dopamine the brain produces, which can result
in symptoms like those of Parkinson's disease,
a severe movement disorder. Then, when the user
stops taking the drug, the brain is unable to
function normally.
Crystal meth can have devastating
effects on human physiology and psychology.
Even small amounts have an enormous impact on
the central nervous system, including increased
wakefulness and physical activity, decreased
appetite, increased respiration, hyperthermia,
euphoria, irritability, insomnia, confusion,
tremors, convulsions, anxiety, paranoia and
aggressiveness.
Crystal meth also causes increased
heart rate and blood pressure and can do irreversible
damage to blood vessels in the brain, which
produces strokes. Other effects include respiratory
problems, irregular heartbeat and extreme weight
loss and can result in cardiovascular collapse
and death.
If crystal meth addiction might
be a problem for you or someone you love, we
encourage you to give NIR a call today to learn
more about our intervention referral options.
Please contact us with
questions or concerns at
1-800-399-3612.
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