The Effects of Using Crystal Meth

Crystal meth is gaining worldwide popularity as an addictive amphetamine.

Many youngsters are falling prey to this drug that slowly poisons. This illegal drug is also known as methamphetamine and it is a member of the amphetamine medicine family. When the drug is in its crystalline form, it is known as crystal meth. This addictive drug is also available in a coarse powdered form. It is formulated with a highly combustible combination of chemicals, which may include household cleaning products. When crystal meth is consumed in even small quantities, it can produce effects that linger as long as 10 to 20 hours depending on the dosage and the manner in which it is used.

* Effects of Using Crystal Meth

There are several effects that are linked with using methamphetamine. The use of this highly addictive drug has several risk factors associated with it that can extend beyond those mentioned here.

+ General instant effects:

• Improved concentration and alertness
• Exhilaration
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Insomnia, jaw clenching and tremors
• Irritability, panic, agitation, violence, mystification, loquaciousness and compulsive interest in recurring tasks
• Contraction of arteries
• Improved blood pressure, heart beat, body temperature and blood sugar level
• Excessive sweating
• Increased libido

+ Effects linked with persistent use:

• Addiction to the drug
• Short-term weight loss
• Depression and anxiety
• Tolerance to the drug with more usage required to achieve the same effect
• Tooth decay and tooth loss known as “meth mouth”
• Psychosis due to prolonged drug use

+ Effects of an overdose:

• Brain damage
• Hallucinations, delusions, paranoia and headaches
• Muscle cramps and kidney failure
• Cardiac arrest, sudden stroke and high body temperature

* The Risks of Using Crystal Meth

There are several risks that are involved with the prolonged use of crystal meth. Some of the threats of using this highly addictive drug are:

• Insomnia and a disturbed mind after taking this drug
• Frequent use of methamphetamine may lead to addiction and dependency on the drug
• Regular use may lead to extreme weight loss, damage to the immune system and metabolic changes
• Persistent use may lead to dental problems and speed up the aging process
• Using unsterilized or used syringes may often lead to contracting HIV other STDs

“Crystal meth falls under the Class A addictive drug category and it is illegal to possess, produce and supply this drug or let anyone use this drug. Crystal meth is a highly addictive drug that may lead to serious health problems when it is used for a prolonged period. Methamphetamines that are prescribed by doctors for obesity or mental disorders are legal, but crystal meth is illegal.“