Crystal meth is an odorless, colorless kind of d-methamphetamine. It is a synthetic stimulant that is categorized as a Schedule II substance. The categorization makes it a highly addictive substance that has the potential to be abused. Studies show that an estimated 5% of the adult population in America has at least used the substance once. Research conducted in the British Medical Journal revealed that about 50% of American adults use meth every week (Peterson, 2021). It is a substance that is used for recreational purposes due to its stimulant effect. It results in pain insensitivity and a high euphoric state. The National Drug Intelligence Center report that most people smoke the substance using a glass pipe. It is succeeded by an immediate and intense ecstatic effect that can last for about half a day or more. Studies also indicate that nearly 24 million people in the world abuse the substance. The substance, when consumed, has both long- and short-term side effects.
The drug is used to treat specific medical conditions like narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders in the medical field. The Drug Enforcement Agency sensitizes the population on its potential for addiction and abuse. When misused, meth poses a significant health risk to the abuser. It can lead to several side effects and trigger an intensive ecstatic condition in the user. Some of its most notable side effects include vomiting, nausea, bad breath, depression, seizures, overdose, and eventual death.
Short-term Effects
Users of meth look for its immediate and intense effect that has a close association with the drug. The vapor of the substance is quickly absorbed in the bloodstream and the brain. It then stimulates the body and the brain to create an almost instant euphoric feeling that is succeeded by increased alertness and energy. These effects can last up to half a day. Other short-term outcomes associated with the substance include:
- A euphoric feeling that lasts for about half an hour
- Increased motivation levels that can lead to erratic behavior
- Feeling confident with one’s ability to solve problems
These feelings give way to undesirable side effects that can lead to violent or erratic behavior when consumed in large doses.
Long-term Effects
When methamphetamine is consumed for a more extended period, it can lead to psychological and physical problems as the short-term effects accumulate and increase complexity and intensity. The long-term effects of meth include:
- Increased psychotic symptoms like paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations
- High levels of anxiety, depression, and social isolation
- Odd behavior and confusion, which can lead to serious mental issues
- Feelings of irritability as if bugs are under the skin
- Sores on the body due to picking
- Breathing problems as a result of inhaling smoke
- Permanent blood vessels damage in the entire body, including the brain and heart
- Increased incidences of strokes
- Coma
Increased abuse of meth can lead to physical signs of aging on the abuser. The main reason is that it damages blood vessels and tissues, which hinders the ability of the body to heal. As a result, the skin loses its structure and increases the aging process. Consequently, meth abusers have acne, which is also known as “meth mouth.” However, the most severe effect of meth abuse is death caused by stroke or cardiac arrest.
References
Peterson, E. (2021). Effects of Crystal Meth Use and Abuse. American Addiction Centres. Retrieved from: Crystal Meth Effects | Short Term, Long Term & Side Effects (drugabuse.com).