Meth Drug Rehab
Many people who begin using meth do it innocently, from wanting to lose a few pounds to staying awake for various reasons. However, experimenting with meth can quickly become disastrous. So what makes meth so appealing?
Meth, or methamphetamines, also known as crystal meth, is a highly addictive and powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Physicians prescribe a form of methamphetamines known as Desoxyn to treat morbid obesity, narcolepsy, and certain cases of ADHD.
Meth is part of a larger group of synthetic drugs with effects like cocaine. It works by triggering high levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. It creates feelings of alertness, euphoria, and decreased appetite. There are several ways of ingesting the drug but the most common is through smoking.
When it is smoked or injected, it quickly enters the bloodstream and brain causing an immediate and intense high. Meth is quick acting and only lasts a few minutes, causing users to ingest repeated doses to maintain their high. Over time, users build tolerance and need more in order to achieve the same effect, which can lead to dependency and even overdose.
Effects of Meth Addiction
Meth is highly addictive due to the intense rush it provides. Not only does it affect dopamine levels, but it also increases serotonin levels. After the high wears off, the brain is left without any dopamine or serotonin, leading to feelings of depression and anxiety. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on meth in order to release these neurotransmitters.
Physical and physiological effects of meth include:
- Heightened sense of well-being
- Increased respiration
- Paranoia
- Headaches
- Increase attention and alertness
- Decreased appetite
- Increased blood pressure
- Anger, irritation, or anxiety
- Headaches
- Hyperthermia
- Stroke
- Convulsions
- Heart attack
- Death
One well known physical effect is “meth mouth”. This refers to the tooth decay caused by methamphetamines. It eats away at tooth enamel causing them to rot.
The stimulant effects of meth may cause users to grind their teeth excessively which lead to loosening of teeth, cracking, and jaw problems. Excessive doses may lead to paranoid thinking, psychotic symptoms, and violent behavior.
LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF METH USE
Over time, meth users build tolerance and need a higher dose to achieve the same effects. They also become dependent on the drug. Long-term use can cause physical changes to the brain and cause:
- Suicidal thoughts
- Homicidal thoughts
- Memory loss
- Paranoia
- Insomnia
- Psychosis
- Confusion
- Delusions
- Psychosis
- Liver and kidney problems
Meth is highly addictive, both physically and psychologically. However, adequate substance abuse treatment has proven effective and the sooner you get help, the better the outcome. At DayBreak Treatment Solutions in West Palm Beach, we offer both partial hospitalization treatment and intensive outpatient treatment to help you or your loved one recover from the devastating effects of methamphetamine addiction. Through our comprehensive program, we offer meth detox to help ensure you complete the detox process safely and comfortably without outside distractions. Continued treatment will help treat the psychological and mental aspects of meth addiction.