Is Speed Meth?
“Speed” is a slang term for the drug methamphetamine, which is a powerful central nervous system stimulant. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and illegal drug that can have serious negative effects on a person’s physical and mental health. So, “speed” and “meth” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same drug.
Is meth speed? Meth is short for methamphetamine, a highly addictive and powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system (CNS). The legal version of meth, Desoxyn, can be prescribed to obese patients to help them lose weight. The street version of meth and crystal meth, which is dangerous and highly addictive, is illegal.
Is Speed the Same as Meth?
No, speed and meth are not the same thing, although they are both classified as stimulant drugs. Speed usually refers to amphetamine, which is a central nervous system stimulant that is prescribed for medical conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy. However, it can also be produced illegally and sold on the street. Street names for amphetamine include speed, uppers, and bennies.
Meth, short for methamphetamine, is a much stronger stimulant drug that is often made illegally in clandestine labs. It is a highly addictive drug that can cause severe physical and mental health problems. Street names for meth include crystal, ice, and crank.
While both drugs are stimulants that affect the central nervous system, meth is generally considered to be more potent and more dangerous than amphetamine. Additionally, the chemical structures of the two drugs are different, which means they can have different effects on the body and brain.
What is the Difference Between Speed and Meth?
Is ther a difference between meth and speed? Speed and methamphetamine (commonly known as “meth”) are both stimulant drugs that have similar effects on the body and brain. However, there are some differences between the two:
- Chemical composition: Are speed and meth the same thing? Speed is a generic term that can refer to a variety of amphetamine-based drugs, including amphetamine sulfate and dextroamphetamine. Methamphetamine, on the other hand, is a specific type of amphetamine that has a different chemical structure and is more potent than other amphetamines.
- Effects: Is speed and meth the same? Both drugs stimulate the central nervous system, increase alertness, and suppress appetite. However, methamphetamine is generally more potent and longer-lasting than speed and can produce more intense effects on the body and brain.
- Method of use: Is speed and meth the same thing? Speed can be taken orally or snorted, while methamphetamine is typically smoked, injected, or snorted.
- Legality: Are speed and meth the same? In many countries, including the United States, both speed and methamphetamine are illegal and classified as controlled substances. However, the penalties for possession, distribution, and use of methamphetamine are generally more severe than those for speed.
- Addiction potential: Are meth and speed the same? Both speed and methamphetamine can be highly addictive, but methamphetamine is generally considered to be more addictive due to its more potent and longer-lasting effects.
Is Meth Speed? Crystal Meth vs Speed
What is the difference between speed vs meth? These two illicit drug names seem separate, and they are to an extent. However, meth and speed can also group to mean the same. For instance, if you heard someone talking about being addicted to speed, they very well could be talking about meth because the word speed is a slang word used by some individuals on the street to describe meth. But what is the difference between speed vs meth? Is there a difference?
What Does Speed Drug Look Like?
Speed is a white or off-white powder that can vary in texture from fine to slightly coarse. It is often sold in small plastic bags or vials, and can also be found in pill form. The powder may have a slightly bitter taste and a strong odor. It is usually sold in small quantities, and users typically take it by snorting, swallowing, or injecting it.
It’s important to note that the appearance of speed can vary depending on the method of production and the purity of the drug, so it may not always look the same. However, regardless of its appearance, speed is a highly dangerous and addictive drug that can cause serious harm to the body and mind.
What Does Meth Look Like?
Methamphetamine can come in many forms, each of which has a distinctive appearance. In most cases, individuals purchase crystal meth that looks like crystalline rocks or broken glass fragments that can be clear, white, grey, or blue-ish white.
The shard, glass-like appearance is where the drug gets the name “glass” and “crystal” This is the form of meth people usually think of when they think of the illicit drug. Unfortunately, it is also the most popular form of meth that is abused by individuals struggling with substance use disorder.
Meth can also come in the form of a powder, tablet, or pill.
- Powdered meth – This form of meth is usually white or light brown. It may look like fine sugar crystals. There may be large and small-sized “rocks” mixed in with the powder.
- Capsules of pressed tablets – Some manufacturers sell meth as a capsule with powder inside or pressed tablets mixed with other additives and drugs. These tablets can mimic the appearance of MDMA and come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors.
- Pills (Desoxyn) – Methamphetamine is manufactured into a pill called Desoxyn. Desoxyn is a stimulant prescription medication used to treat ADHD and other conditions on rare occasions. These pills are white and round and have the letters “OV” stamped on one side and the number “12” on the other.
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FREE Addiction Hotline – Call 24/7Meth Abuse Statistics
It is important to note that these statistics only represent those who reported using the drug and may not accurately reflect the full extent of meth addiction in the population. Additionally, addiction can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances and factors such as genetics, environment, and personal history. Meth addiction can have serious and long-lasting effects on a person’s physical and mental health, as well as their relationships and overall quality of life.
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
Methamphetamine 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
What is its legal status in the United States?
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’s the Difference Between Speed and Meth in Terms of Chemical Composition?
The chemical composition of speed and methamphetamine (meth) is similar, but there are some important differences:
- Amphetamine: Both drugs belong to the amphetamine family of stimulants. Amphetamines are synthetic compounds that mimic the effects of the natural neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
- Methylation: Methamphetamine is a type of amphetamine that has an additional methyl group attached to the nitrogen atom, which makes it more potent and longer-lasting than other amphetamines.
- Purity: Methamphetamine is usually produced in illegal laboratories and can be highly pure or contaminated with other substances, depending on the production methods. Speed, on the other hand, can be produced by pharmaceutical companies for medical use or by illegal producers, and its purity can also vary.
- Pharmaceutical use: While methamphetamine is not commonly used for medical purposes, certain forms of amphetamines, such as dextroamphetamine and Adderall, are prescribed to treat conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
Is meth the same as speed? Overall, while the chemical composition of speed and methamphetamine is similar, the addition of a methyl group in methamphetamine makes it more potent and longer-lasting than other amphetamines. However, both drugs have similar effects on the brain and body and can be highly addictive and dangerous when misused.
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Hotline (877) 378-4154Whats the Difference Between Speed and Meth in Terms of Effects?
Speed and methamphetamine (meth) are both stimulant drugs that can produce similar effects on the body and brain, but there are some important differences:
- Potency: Methamphetamine is generally more potent and longer-lasting than speed, which means that it can produce more intense and long-lasting effects on the body and brain.
- Duration of effects: The effects of speed typically last for several hours, while the effects of methamphetamine can last for up to 12 hours or more, depending on the method of use.
- Route of administration: Both drugs can be taken orally, snorted, or injected, but methamphetamine can also be smoked, which can produce a faster onset of effects.
- Health risks: Both drugs can cause a range of health problems, including cardiovascular issues, insomnia, anxiety, and psychosis. However, due to its higher potency and longer-lasting effects, methamphetamine is generally considered to be more harmful than speed.
- Addiction potential: Both drugs can be highly addictive, but methamphetamine is generally considered to be more addictive due to its more potent and longer-lasting effects.
Overall, while speed and methamphetamine have some similarities in terms of their effects, the differences in potency, duration of effects, and route of administration can make a significant difference in terms of their impact on the body and brain. Regardless of the specific drug, both speed and methamphetamine can be highly dangerous and addictive when misused.
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What is the Difference Between Speed and Meth in Terms of Method of Use?
Are meth and speed the same thing? Speed and methamphetamine (meth) can be taken by similar methods of use, but there are some differences:
- Oral ingestion: Both drugs can be taken orally, either in pill form or by mixing the powder with water and drinking it.
- Snorting: Both drugs can be snorted, although speed is more commonly taken in this way.
- Injection: Both drugs can be injected, but this is more commonly associated with methamphetamine.
- Smoking: Methamphetamine can be smoked, while speed is not typically taken in this way.
When speed or methamphetamine is injected or smoked, it can produce a faster onset of effects, as the drug is delivered directly into the bloodstream or lungs. However, these methods of use can also increase the risk of overdose and other health problems, including infections and damage to the veins or lungs.
What is the difference between speed vs crystal meth? It’s important to note that regardless of the method of use, both speed and methamphetamine can be highly addictive and dangerous when misused.
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What is the Difference Between Speed and Meth in Terms of Addiction Potential?
Is meth and speed the same? Both speed and methamphetamine (meth) have a high potential for addiction, but there are some differences in terms of their addictive potential:
- Potency: Methamphetamine is generally more potent and longer-lasting than speed, which means that it can produce more intense and longer-lasting effects on the brain and body, leading to a higher potential for addiction.
- Method of use: Injecting or smoking methamphetamine can produce a faster onset of effects and a more intense high, which can increase the risk of addiction.
- Withdrawal: Both drugs can cause withdrawal symptoms when use is discontinued, but the withdrawal symptoms associated with methamphetamine addiction can be more severe and longer-lasting.
- Tolerance: Both drugs can cause tolerance to develop over time, which means that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects. Tolerance can increase the risk of addiction, as individuals may continue to use higher doses in order to achieve the desired effects.
Is meth and speed the same thing? Overall, while both speed and methamphetamine have a high potential for addiction, the higher potency and longer-lasting effects of methamphetamine, as well as the method of use and severity of withdrawal symptoms, may make it more addictive than speed. It’s important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to either drug, as both can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences.
Serious Health Effects Linked with Speed Addiction
Speed addiction can lead to a range of serious health issues, including:
- Cardiovascular problems: Speed can cause increased heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues.
- Psychiatric disorders: Prolonged use of speed can cause or exacerbate mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, paranoia, and psychosis.
- Physical health problems: Speed can cause a range of physical health problems, including insomnia, weight loss, dental problems, and skin infections.
- Social and occupational problems: Speed addiction can also cause social and occupational problems, including financial difficulties, job loss, and strained relationships with family and friends.
- Risky behavior: Speed can lead to risky behavior, such as engaging in unsafe sex or driving under the influence, which can increase the risk of injury or death.
- Overdose: Overdose is a serious risk associated with a speed addiction, which can lead to seizures, coma, and death.
It’s important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with speed addiction. Treatment options may include behavioral therapies, medications, and support groups, and can help individuals to manage their addiction and prevent or address potential health problems.
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Speed Addiction Treatment
First and foremost, if you think a loved one is abusing speed, 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 amphetamine 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 amphetamine withdrawal.
Speed Detox
Medical detox is often considered the first stage of treatment. It will help you navigate the complicated amphetamine 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 Speed 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 speed 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.
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 speed effects on the nervous system can be treated simultaneously with the help of therapies.
If you or a loved one is struggling with speed addiction or a high-functioning amphetamine 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.
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 photos of individuals who were arrested for methamphetamine-related crimes. The photos show the physical transformation 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 negative consequences associated with its use.
Search We Level Up NJ “Is Speed Meth?” 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/what-treatments-are-effective-people-who-misuse-methamphetamine / Tag: Is speed meth?
[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: Is speed meth?
[3] Know the Risks of Meth | SAMHSA – https://www.samhsa.gov/meth/ Tag: Is speed meth?
[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: Is speed meth?
[5] Drug Fact Sheet: Methamphetamine (dea.gov) – https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Methamphetamine-2020_0.pdf / Tag: Is speed meth?
[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: Is speed meth?
[7] Methamphetamine DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov) – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine / Tag: Is speed meth? / need for speed meth addict
[8] Methamphetamine Research Report: Overview | NIDA (nih.gov) – https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/overview / Tag: Is speed meth?
[9] Meth Overdose Deaths Surge | NIH Record – https://nihrecord.nih.gov/2021/10/29/meth-overdose-deaths-surge / Tag: Is speed meth? / need for speed meth addict
[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: Is speed meth?