Stimulants: Cocaine & Meth / Question
Published: July 9, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
1 year ago I was addicted to meth. I did it often over a period of about 5 months. One time I did so much I got really sick and I haven't done it since. Will this have severe effects on my life?
Signed: Effects of Meth
Dear Effects of Meth,
Meth, or methamphetamine, is a stimulant often better known as "speed", "crystal meth" or "ice." When taken methamphetamine produces a quick rush and pleasurable feeling resulting in a binge and crash pattern of usage. A tolerance is built immediately due to the nature of the quick rush, forcing an individual to seek more and more each time.
Ingesting, smoking or snorting any drug can have serious side effects on your body. The effects are often psychological and physical.
Short term effects:
- Increased wakefulness
- Decreased fatigue
- Increased activity
- Decreased appetite
- High doses damage nerve terminals in dopamine regions of brain
- Dangerous elevation of body temperature
Long term effects:
- Violent behavior
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Auditory hallucinations
- Mood disturbances
- Delusions
Repeated use can lead to damage in dopamine and serotonin containing nerve cells in the brain.
Often, the severity of the effects depends on the frequency and dosage used. If you have specific concerns you should see a doctor who can perform specific tests and exams to evaluate your current health.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Among male drivers between 15 and 20 years of age who were involved in fatal crashes in 2005, 38% were speeding at the time of the crash and 24% had been drinking.
