Meth(ice)

What is meth?

Methamphetamine is a powerful and highly addictive chemical substance. Used as illegally as a stimulant, it directly affects the body’s central nervous system. Street names for methamphetamine include meth, blue, ice, and crystal.

How does meth works?

Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth or crystal meth, is a powerful stimulant that directly affects the central nervous system. Initially used for depression and obesity treatment in the early 20th century, meth is currently intended to treat individuals suffering from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Although it is intended for medical use, meth is also frequently abused for recreational purposes. This is because the drug can create a state of euphoria, or “high,” that lasts for up to 12 hours.

Methamphetamine abuse creates a number of physical and psychological health risks and can lead to long-term brain damage. This overview covers how meth affects the brain, the side effects it creates and the symptoms related to meth addiction.METHAMPHETAMINE HAS A HIGH POTENTIAL FOR ABUSE. IT SHOULD THUS BE
TRIED ONLY IN WEIGHT REDUCTION PROGRAMS FOR PATIENTS IN WHOM
ALTERNATIVE THERAPY HAS BEEN INEFFECTIVE. ADMINISTRATION OF
METHAMPHETAMINE FOR PROLONGED PERIODS OF TIME IN OBESITY MAY
LEAD TO DRUG DEPENDENCE AND MUST BE AVOIDED. PARTICULAR
ATTENTION SHOULD BE PAID TO THE POSSIBILITY OF SUBJECTS OBTAINING
METHAMPHETAMINE FOR NON-THERAPEUTIC USE OR DISTRIBUTION TO
OTHERS, AND THE DRUG SHOULD BE PRESCRIBED OR DISPENSED
SPARINGLY. MISUSE OF METHAMPHETAMINE MAY CAUSE SUDDEN DEATH AND
SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR ADVERSE EVENTS.
DESCRIPTION
DESOXYN® (methamphetamine hydrochloride tablets, USP), chemically known as
(S)-N,α-dimethylbenzeneethanamine hydrochloride, is a member of the amphetamine
group of sympathomimetic amines. It has the following structural formula:
DESOXYN tablets contain 5 mg of methamphetamine hydrochloride for oral.

How can meth be use

Smoking methamphetamine is the most frequent route of administration but it may be taken orally, by injection, or intranasal (“snorted”). If smoked or injected, the user experiences an intense sensation called a “rush”. This may last only a few minutes, but is described by the user as extremely pleasurable. If meth is snorted or taken orally, the user experiences a euphoria, but not an intense “high.” Snorting produces effects within 3 to 5 minutes and oral ingestion produces effects within 15 to 20 minutes.

As with other drugs, users may begin with casual use, but soon begin to develop a tolerance. In order to get the same effect experienced by the initial use, they increase the amount or change routes. For example, if taken orally initially, the user may change to either smoking or injecting the drug.

“While meth is still predominantly smoked or snorted, police and public health workers in Anchorage also say that the ubiquity of intravenous opioid use has opened the door to more people shooting meth with needles, though nobody can provide firm data.

Meth prescriptions

Methamphetamine is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It belongs to the group of medicines called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants.

Methamphetamine is also used for weight reduction in obese patients.

Methamphetamine works in the treatment of ADHD by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in children and adults who are overactive, cannot concentrate for very long, or are easily distracted and impulsive. This medicine is used as part of a total treatment program that also includes social, educational, and psychological treatment.

This medicine is available only with a doctor’s prescription. Prescriptions cannot be refilled. A new prescription must be obtained each time you or your child need this medicine.

Meth Overdose

Whenever someone uses meth, they’re taking a great risk of overdose. Because it is an illicit substance, there is no regulation when it is being “cooked.” Meth is often manufactured in makeshift “laboratories” with no consideration given to sterility or cleanliness. Not to mention that the recipe calls for dangerous chemicals such as antifreeze, iodine, battery acid, and even kitty litter.

Because of the makeshift nature of meth production, there is no way that a user can tell the quality or purity of any given batch.

If you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction, knowing the warning signs could save a life. The following are some of the signs to look out for:

Heart Problems

Heart problems including chest pains, arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), hypertension (high blood pressure), and rapid or slow heartbeat are all very common meth overdose symptoms. As mentioned above, the rapid raising of blood pressure during an overdose can quickly cause issues such as stroke, heart attack, or hemorrhaging. It is important to be able to identify any heart issues as they can very quickly become fatal.

Stomach Pain

Severe stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting can all be symptoms of meth overdose. If the person begins to lose consciousness, it is very important to make sure they are on their side while you’re seeking help. There is potential for the overdose victim to choke on their own vomit if they’re laying on their back.

Trouble Breathing

Take note of the breathing patterns of someone who is facing a potential meth overdose. It is very common for a user to experience hyperventilation (rapid breathing) and difficult or labored breathing. The respiratory system very closely relates to the heart as it is what supplies the blood with oxygen. Breathing issues can be the first sign of something much more serious.

Seizures

Seizures are another common symptom of meth overdose. Seizures can be marked by the loss of control of motor functions and convulsions. This can eventually lead to cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, and even coma if not properly addressed.

Psychosis

Extreme psychosis and paranoia can be symptoms of meth overdose. The user may show signs of extreme confusion such as not knowing where they are. They may describe feelings of their flesh crawling or describe the sensation of having bugs under their skin. Other behavioral symptoms of meth overdose may include visible restlessness and auditory or visual hallucinations.

Along with these major symptoms of overdose, take note of the user’s demeanor and mood. Extreme aggression or agitation can also be a warning sign of meth overdose.