What Does Meth Do to a Person?

Methamphetamine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. This synthetic illegal substance is often found in crystal or powder form and is typically consumed by smoking, snorting, or injecting. It is produced in secret labs using relatively cheap over-the-counter ingredients like pseudoephedrine, commonly found in cold medications, along with dangerous chemicals such as acetone, ammonia, and paint thinner. The mixture of these toxic substances poses significant health risks and can lead to severe addiction. It often wreaks havoc on all aspects of a person’s health and life, causing significant physical damage. So, what does meth do to a person?

Known by various names such as meth, crystal meth, speed, or crank, it induces an intense euphoric high. However, meth also has devastating effects on a person’s physical and mental well-being. MethFree LA County outlines the extensive physical, emotional, mental, and social repercussions of meth use on its website. The drug prompts the brain to release excessive dopamine, contributing to that euphoric sensation. Its stimulating effects can lead to immediate heart issues and other health problems, which can be life-threatening. Over time, with recurrent use, it can deplete the brain’s dopamine supply, leading to depression, anxiety, and mood swings.

Meth’s effects on the reward system of the brain can increase the need to use, leading to dependence and eventually, addiction. Luckily, comprehensive addiction treatment programs can offer the support needed to overcome meth addiction. Early intervention is key for successful recovery and to prevent any long-term effects of meth addiction, such as dental decay and psychotic symptoms.

What Are the Effects of Meth?

Methamphetamine is a potent stimulant that can significantly boost physical activity and alertness while suppressing appetite. It acts on the central nervous system, creating a euphoric high but also posing serious cardiovascular risks. Some immediate effects of meth include:

Increased attention and alertness. Increase heart rate, body temperature, and sweating. Elevated blood pressure. Increased rate of breathing. Jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Dilated pupils Dry mouth. Nervousness, anxiety, and paranoia. Insomnia and disturbed sleep patterns.

As with many drugs, repeated use can lead to tolerance, where the person needs to take higher doses to feel the same effects. Chronic users may struggle to experience pleasure outside of the drug, perpetuating a cycle of abuse. Over time, this can result in dependence, with withdrawal symptoms emerging if the person stops using it, ultimately leading to addiction. Long-term meth use can develop further health complications, including:

Extreme weight loss. Sleep deprivation and insomnia. Damage to vital organs, including the heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys. Tooth decay is commonly referred to as “meth mouth.” Psychotic symptoms include paranoia, delusions, and visual and auditory hallucinations. Increased anxiety and depression. Violent behavior. Cognitive impairments include confusion, memory loss, and impaired verbal learning. Severe heart problems, including cardiomyopathy, hypertension, and heart attacks.

Both short-term and long-term meth use can be fatal. The risk of overdose is significant, potentially leading to death from a stroke, heart attack, or multiple organ failure. Additionally, meth can diminish inhibitions, resulting in risky behaviors that may cause physical harm or death. Long-term consequences, particularly cardiovascular issues, can also contribute to premature death. Furthermore, individuals who inject meth face a heightened risk of contracting blood-borne diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis B and C.

How Do People on Meth Act?

The adverse health effects of meth can be devastating. If you suspect someone you know has a problem with meth, it is important to know the signs of meth use so you can help them find treatment. While some individuals may experience rapid health decline due to heavy meth use, for others, the signs may not be immediately apparent. When someone is under the influence of meth, they can experience an intense euphoric high that can last from 8 hours to a full day. During this time, they might display various behaviors, such as:

Acting aggressively or compulsively. Be more physically active. Engage in pointless, repetitive actions. Show signs of paranoia. Appear confused or detached from reality. Talk incessantly. Experience sleeplessness. Having facial twitches. Displaying rapid eye movement. Physical symptoms include severe sweating, dilated pupils, vomiting, headaches, and elevated body temperature.

Following this high, users often enter a crash phase that can last between 3 to 10 days, characterized by profound exhaustion and, frequently, feelings of depression. Individuals who go through periods of hyperactivity and then sleep constantly for days may be using meth. Additionally, they may have withdrawal symptoms, which include incessant scratching and itching, often leaving sores on the skin.

Why Do People Use Meth?

People who misuse meth often do so due to a developed addiction. Substance use disorders cause a person to continue using meth despite its negative effects. Withdrawal symptoms and cravings are severe enough to cause people to use again and again. Additionally, repeated meth use results in the depletion of dopamine levels in the brain, which results in the person becoming reliant on the drug to feel any pleasure.

There are several factors that may lead someone to try meth for the first time, such as: Experimentation for recreational use. Seeking out its euphoric effects. Using it as a form of self-medication for mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. As an escape from reality or everyday life.

How Do I Get Off Meth?

Overcoming methamphetamine addiction is notoriously challenging, and relapse is extremely common. Getting off meth generally requires long-term addiction treatment and relapse prevention planning for life-long support. The withdrawal symptoms associated with meth can be severe and excruciating, often persisting for weeks, which can lead to continued use. Fortunately, meth addiction treatment programs provide the necessary support for individuals seeking to break free from meth. Medical detox programs offer a secure environment to manage withdrawal symptoms, utilizing around-the-clock supervision, medication, and therapeutic interventions. After completing detox, drug addiction treatment programs can equip individuals with the skills needed to achieve lasting sobriety.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the most effective strategies for treating meth addiction include behavioral therapies, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Their research indicates that a comprehensive 16-week treatment plan that integrates behavioral therapy, 12-step support, family education, individual counseling, and the promotion of non-drug-related activities can significantly reduce meth misuse. Moreover, dual diagnosis treatment programs are often essential, addressing the co-occurring mental health disorders that frequently accompany methamphetamine abuse.

Effective Options for Meth Addiction Treatment at Living Longer Recovery

The harmful impacts of methamphetamine can be long-lasting and even fatal, so it is important to reach out for support as soon as possible to learn more about what does meth do to a person. Living Longer Recovery is a drug and alcohol addiction treatment center near Palm Springs, California offering comprehensive meth recovery programs. Our facility offers a full spectrum of care, including inpatient treatment and outpatient services, designed to help individuals successfully navigate their journey to overcome meth addiction through a structured step-down approach. Additionally, our dual diagnosis programs ensure that patients receive essential mental health support concurrently, maximizing their chances for a successful recovery.

If you or a loved one are struggling with meth addiction and are ready to get on the road toward recovery, contact Living Longer today at 866-714-3294 to speak with an admissions specialist to start the intake process.

External Sources

• Meth Free LA County – How Meth Affects You 
• National Institute on Drug Abuse – What treatments are effective for people who misuse methamphetamines? 
• National Institute on Drug Abuse – What are the long-term effects of methamphetamine misuse?