What Are The Crystal Meth Side Effects? Short Term and Long Term Effects of Crystal Meth Addiction.

Know the physical, behavioral, and psychological side effects of crystal meth. Read more about the different treatment options for you or your loved ones struggling with crystal meth abuse.


Crystal Meth Side Effects

Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamine, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that can have a number of harmful side effects. Here are some of the most common crystal meth side effects:

  • Physical side effects. Crystal meth can cause a range of physical side effects, including rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, insomnia, tremors, seizures, and muscle twitching.
  • Psychological side effects. Crystal meth can also cause a range of psychological side effects, including anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, delusions, aggression, and violent behavior. Long-term use can lead to severe depression and suicidal thoughts.
  • Dental problems. Crystal meth use can lead to a condition called “meth mouth,” which is characterized by severe dental decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
  • Skin problems. Crystal meth use can cause skin problems, including acne, sores, and itching.
  • Sexual side effects: Crystal meth use can lead to sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and difficulty reaching orgasm.
  • Respiratory problems. Crystal meth use can cause respiratory problems, including shortness of breath and lung damage.
  • Heart problems. Crystal meth use can lead to heart problems, including heart attacks, heart palpitations, and heart failure.
  • Liver and kidney damage. Crystal meth use can damage the liver and kidneys, leading to long-term health problems.

Overall, crystal meth use can have serious and long-lasting effects on both physical and mental health. It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with crystal meth addiction.

What You Should Know About Crystal Meth

Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamine, is a powerful stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. Here are some key things you should know about crystal meth:

  • Highly addictive. Crystal meth is highly addictive, and can quickly lead to physical and psychological dependence.
  • Illegal. Crystal meth is illegal in most countries, and possession or distribution of the drug can result in severe legal consequences.
  • Method of use. Crystal meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, or taken orally.
  • Effects. Crystal meth produces a rush of euphoria and energy but also causes a range of harmful physical and psychological effects, including dental problems, skin sores, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and violent behavior.
  • Overdose. Taking too much crystal meth can result in a potentially fatal overdose, which can cause seizures, coma, and death.
  • Treatment. Crystal meth addiction can be difficult to overcome, but with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible. Treatment may include medication, therapy, and support groups.
  • Prevention. The best way to avoid the harmful effects of crystal meth is to avoid using the drug altogether. Education and prevention programs can help individuals make informed decisions about drug use and avoid addiction.

It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with crystal meth addiction. With the right treatment and support, recovery is possible.

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Crystal Meth Abuse Statistics

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug that can lead to serious physical and mental health problems, as well as significant social and economic consequences. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2020, approximately 1.5 million people aged 12 or older reported using methamphetamine in the past year.


2.6 million

Among people aged 12 or older in 2020, 0.9% (or about 2.6 million people) reported using methamphetamine in the past 12 months.

Source: 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

1.5 million

Among people aged 12 or older in 2020, an estimated 0.6% (or about 1.5 million people) had a methamphetamine use disorder in the past 12 months.

Source: 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

23,837

In 2020, approximately 23,837 people died from an overdose involving psychostimulants with abuse potential other than cocaine (primarily methamphetamine).

Source: CDC


Crystal Meth Drug Facts

What is methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine (meth) is a stimulant. The FDA-approved brand-name medication is Desoxyn.


What is its origin?

Mexican drug trafficking organizations have become the primary manufacturers and distributors of methamphetamine throughout the United States, including Hawaii. Domestic clandestine laboratory operators also produce and distribute meth on a smaller scale. The methods used depend on the availability of precursor chemicals.


What are common street names?

Common street names include:

  • Batu.
  • Bikers Coffee.
  • Black Beauties.
  • Chalk
    Chicken Feed.
  • Crank.
  • Crystal.
  • Glass.
  • Go-Fast.
  • Hiropon.
  • Ice.
  • Poor Man’s Cocaine.
  • Shabu.
  • Shards.
  • Speed.
  • Stove Top.
  • .Tina.
  • Trash.
  • Tweak.
  • Meth.
  • Methlies Quick.

Methamphetamine is a Schedule II stimulant
under the Controlled Substances Act, which
means that it has a high potential for abuse and a
currently accepted medical use (in FDA-approved products). It is available only through a prescription that cannot be refilled.

Today there is only one legal meth product, Desoxyn. It is currently marketed in 5, 10, and 15-milligram tablets (immediate-release and extended-release formulations) and has very limited use in the treatment of obesity and ADHD

What does it look like?

Regular meth is a pill or powder. Crystal meth
resembles glass fragments or shiny blue-white “rocks” of various sizes.


How is it abused?

Meth is swallowed, snorted, injected, or smoked. To intensify the effects, users may take higher doses of the drug, take it more frequently, or change their intake method.


What is its effect on the body?

Taking even small amounts of meth can result in:

  • Increased wakefulness.
  • Increased physical activity.
  • Decreased appetite.
  • Rapid breathing and heart rate.
  • Irregular heartbeat.
  • Increased blood pressure.
  • Hyperthermia (overheating).

What is its effect on the mind?

Meth is a highly addictive drug with potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant properties. Those who smoke or inject it report a brief, intense sensation or rush. Oral ingestion or snorting produces a long-lasting high instead of a rush, which reportedly can continue for as long as half a day.

Both the rush and the high are believed to result from the release of very high levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine into areas of the brain that regulate feelings of pleasure. Long-term meth use results in many damaging effects, including addiction.

What drug is ice? Ice drug, also known as crystal methamphetamine, is a stimulant that abnormally increases brain activity.
What drug is ice? Ice drug, also known as crystal methamphetamine, is a stimulant that abnormally increases brain activity.

What are the Short Term Effects of Crystal Meth Addiction on the Brain and Body?

Crystal meth addiction can have significant short-term effects on the brain and body. Some of these crystal meth short term effects may include:

  • Brain. Crystal meth stimulates the release of large amounts of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This flood of dopamine can lead to feelings of euphoria and increased energy. However, over time, the brain may become less sensitive to dopamine, leading to a decrease in pleasure from other activities and an increased need for the drug to achieve the same effect. Chronic use can also lead to changes in the brain’s structure and function, including decreased gray matter in areas associated with decision-making and emotion regulation.
  • Body. Crystal meth can cause a range of physical effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, elevated body temperature, and reduced appetite. It can also lead to hyperactivity, tremors, and convulsions. Chronic use can cause weight loss, dental problems (known as “meth mouth”), and skin sores. Injection drug use can also increase the risk of infections such as HIV and hepatitis.
  • Psychological. Crystal meth use can cause psychological effects such as paranoia, anxiety, aggression, and hallucinations. It can also lead to sleep disturbances, including insomnia and vivid nightmares.

Overall, crystal meth addiction can have serious short-term effects on both the brain and body, and can quickly lead to addiction and long-term health consequences.

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What are the Long Term Effects of Crystal Meth Addiction on the Brain and Body?

Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamine, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that can have devastating long-term effects on both the brain and body. Here are some of the crystal meth long term effects:

  • Brain damage. Crystal meth can cause long-term damage to the brain, including changes in the structure and function of the brain’s reward system, which can make it difficult for individuals to experience pleasure without the drug. Long-term use of crystal meth can also lead to cognitive impairments, such as memory loss, attention deficits, and difficulties with decision-making.
  • Mental health problems. Individuals who abuse crystal meth are at increased risk of developing mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, paranoia, and psychosis. Long-term use of the drug can also increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
  • Physical health problems. Crystal meth can have serious physical health consequences, including cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Long-term use can also lead to respiratory problems, liver damage, kidney damage, and dental problems.
  • Addiction. Crystal meth is highly addictive, and long-term use can lead to dependence on the drug. This can make it difficult for individuals to quit using the drug, even when they want to.
  • Social consequences. Crystal meth addiction can have significant social consequences, including financial problems, legal problems, and strained relationships with friends and family.

Overall, the long-term effects of crystal meth addiction on the brain and body can be devastating, and individuals who struggle with addiction to this drug should seek professional help as soon as possible.

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What are the Crystal Meth Effects on the Heart?

Crystal methamphetamine use has been associated with a range of cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, heart attack, and stroke. Here are some findings from research and studies on the effects of crystal meth on the heart:

  • High blood pressure. Crystal meth can cause a sudden and dramatic increase in blood pressure, which can damage the heart and blood vessels over time. One study found that individuals who use crystal meth have significantly higher blood pressure readings than non-users, even after controlling for other factors that can affect blood pressure, such as age and body mass index.
  • Heart rate. Crystal meth can cause a rapid and irregular heartbeat, which can also put a strain on the heart over time. Studies have found that regular use of crystal meth can lead to an increased risk of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and sudden cardiac death.
  • Heart attack. Crystal meth can also increase the risk of heart attack, particularly in individuals who have pre-existing heart disease or risk factors for heart disease. One study found that individuals who use crystal meth are three times more likely to experience a heart attack than non-users.
  • Stroke. Crystal meth use has also been associated with an increased risk of stroke, particularly in younger individuals. One study found that individuals under the age of 45 who use crystal meth are five times more likely to have a stroke than non-users.
  • Cardiovascular damage. Crystal meth use can cause damage to the heart and blood vessels over time, even in individuals who do not experience acute cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes. One study found that regular use of crystal meth can lead to structural changes in the heart and blood vessels, which can increase the risk of long-term cardiovascular problems.
Chronic meth use can also cause damage to the brain's white matter, which is responsible for transmitting signals between different parts of the brain. This can result in a range of cognitive and neurological problems, including impaired memory and learning, decreased motor function, and difficulties with attention and concentration.
Chronic meth use can also cause damage to the brain’s white matter, which is responsible for transmitting signals between different parts of the brain. This can result in a range of cognitive and neurological problems, including impaired memory and learning, decreased motor function, and difficulties with attention and concentration.

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Crystal Meth Addiction Treatment

First and foremost, if you think a loved one is abusing meth, you should research the substances and their associated addiction to understand better what your loved one needs. Next, you must plan an intervention to provide your loved ones with options to battle the effects of meth addiction in a safe and supportive environment. During this intervention, offer compassion and support instead of judgment. Lastly, show your support throughout the entire treatment process.

In addition, prolonged drug use can have severe physical and psychological effects on you, so it is essential to seek treatment as soon as possible. Inpatient drug rehab offers intensive care that can help you promptly get through the early stages of meth withdrawal. 

Crystal Meth Detox

Medical detox is often considered the first stage of treatment. It will help you navigate the complicated meth detox withdrawal but doesn’t address patterns of thought and behavior contributing to drug use. Various treatment approaches and settings can help provide the ongoing support necessary to maintain long-term sobriety after you complete the meth detox.

Cravings are very common during drug detox and can be challenging to overcome. This often leads to relapse. Constant medical care provided during inpatient treatment helps prevent relapse. Clinicians can give medication and medical expertise to lessen cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Inpatient Crystal Meth Addiction Rehab

There isn’t one treatment approach or style that will suit everyone. Treatment should speak to the needs of the individual. Inpatient rehab and addiction treatment aren’t just about drug use. the goal is to help the patient stop using meth and other substances, but drug rehab should also focus on the whole person’s needs.

Addiction is a complex but treatable disease that affects brain function and behavior. When someone or their family is considering different treatment facilities, they should account for the complexity of addiction and the needs of the individual. The objective of attending an inpatient rehab center for addiction treatment is to stop using the drug and re-learn how to live a productive life without it.

Following a full medical detox, most people benefit from inpatient rehab. Inpatient drug rehab can last anywhere from 28 days to several months. Patients stay overnight in the rehab facility and participate in intensive treatment programs and therapy. Once someone completes rehab, their addiction treatment team will create an aftercare plan, which may include continuing therapy and participation in a 12-step program like Narcotics Anonymous.

The treatment for someone on crystal meth involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.
What are the treatment options for the symptoms of someone on crystal meth? The treatment for someone on crystal meth involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.




Psychotherapy 

Several different modalities of psychotherapy have been used in the treatment of mental health disorders along with addiction, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – is an effective treatment that involves changing both the patterns of negative thoughts and the behavioral routines which are affecting the daily life of the depressed person for various forms of depression.
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) – is a comprehensive mental health and substance abuse treatment program whose ultimate goal is to aid patients in their efforts to build a life worth living. The main goal of DBT is to help a person develop what is referred to as a “clear mind.” 

Medication-Assisted Treatments

Medication-Assisted Treatments (MAT) for substance use and mental health disorders are commonly used in conjunction with one another. This includes the use of medications and other medical procedures. During your rehab, the staff from your treatment facility will help you identify what caused your addiction and teach you skills that will help you change your behavior patterns and challenge the negative thoughts that led to your addiction. Sometimes, the pressures and problems in your life lead you to rely on substances to help you forget about them momentarily. The meth effects on the nervous system can be treated simultaneously with the help of therapies.

If you or a loved one is struggling with crystal meth addiction or a high-functioning meth addict, call today to speak with one of our treatment specialists. Your call is private and confidential, and there is never any obligation. The We Level Up NJ treatment center network offers nationwide facilities. Connect with one of our rehab specialists.

Crystal Meth Side Effects and Faces of Meth Video

The “Faces of Meth” is a well-known anti-drug campaign created by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office in Portland, Oregon. The campaign features a series of before and after crystal meth addicts images who were arrested for methamphetamine-related crimes. The crystal meth before and after images show the physical transformation (crystal meth images before and after) that occurs after prolonged methamphetamine use and is intended to represent the harsh effects of the drug on an individual’s appearance, health, and life. The “Faces of Meth” campaign is designed to deter individuals from using methamphetamine by showing the nand egative consequences associated with its use.

  1. What are the effects of crystal meth on a person’s sex life?

    Some of the potential effects of crystal meth on a person’s sex life include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, painful sex, risky sexual behavior, and decreased sexual pleasure.

  2. What are the side effects of crystal meth on a person’s respiratory system?

    Some of the potential side effects of crystal meth use on the respiratory system include shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary hypertension, and respiratory failure. In severe cases, crystal meth use can lead to respiratory failure, where the lungs are unable to provide enough oxygen to the body, leading to organ damage or death.

  3. What are the physical effects of crystal meth?

    Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamine, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that can have a range of negative physical effects on a person’s health. Some of the physical effects of crystal meth use include weight loss, dental problems, skin problems, insomnia, increased heart rate, and blood pressure.

  4. What are the crystal meth effects on brain?

    Methamphetamine is known to be neurotoxic, meaning it can damage and kill brain cells. This can lead to cognitive deficits, memory loss, and other neurological problems. Studies have shown that methamphetamine use is associated with reduced gray matter in various parts of the brain, which can lead to a range of cognitive and emotional problems.

Search We Level Up NJ “Crystal Meth Side Effects” Topics & Other Resources
Sources:

[1] What treatments are effective for people who misuse methamphetamine? | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov) – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine Tag: crystal meth side effects / crystal meth effects

[2] Patterns and Characteristics of Methamphetamine Use Among Adults — United States, 2015–2018 | MMWR (cdc.gov) – https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6912a1.htm / Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects

[3] Know the Risks of Meth | SAMHSA – https://www.samhsa.gov/meth/ Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects

[4] Neurologic manifestations of chronic methamphetamine abuse – PMC (nih.gov) – Rusyniak DE. Neurologic manifestations of chronic methamphetamine abuse. Neurol Clin. 2011 Aug;29(3):641-55. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2011.05.004. Epub 2011 Jun 24. PMID: 21803215; PMCID: PMC3148451. / Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects

[5] Drug Fact Sheet: Methamphetamine (dea.gov) – https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Methamphetamine-2020_0.pdf / Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects /effects of crystal meths on the brain

[6] How Long Does Meth Stay In Your System? – 7 Stages & Effects (welevelup.com) – https://welevelup.com/addiction/how-long-does-meth-stay-in-your-system/Tag: how crystal meth effects the body

[7] Methamphetamine DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov) – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine / Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects

[8] Methamphetamine Research Report: Overview | NIDA (nih.gov) – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/overview / Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects

[9] Meth Overdose Deaths Surge | NIH Record – https://nihrecord.nih.gov/2021/10/29/meth-overdose-deaths-surge / Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects

[10 ] Trends in U.S. methamphetamine use and associated deaths | National Institutes of Health (NIH) – https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/trends-us-methamphetamine-use-associated-deaths / Tag: crystal meth side effects/crystal meth effects