Meth is a synthetic stimulant that was first developed in a laboratory in Japan in 1919. It was used to keep soldiers awake, especially during the Second World War. It kept fatigue at bay. It became popular because of its properties and also because its crystalline powder form was soluble in water and could be easily injected.
Let us take a look at the therapeutic use of methamphetamine and how its use affects the body. Methamphetamine, today, has limited use in medicine. It may be prescribed for treating ADHD and similar conditions. It is a Schedule II drug. This signifies its potential for abuse. Meth is not an OTC drug, you can purchase it only with a doctor’s prescription, which can be used only once.
Meth can be taken orally, snorted, smoked, or injected. The euphoria caused by meth is intense and short-lived. The effects of meth can last for up to eight hours, depending upon the strength of the dose. Abusers are driven to consume meth in short intervals.This bingeing is followed by an inevitable crash, which affects both the body and brain. Meth abuse cases serious harm, both in the short term and long term. Prolonged meth abuse can lead to irreversible damage.
The euphoric effects caused by meth are a result of dopamine release. Meth abusers chasing this euphoria expose themselves to consequences such as unhealthy weight loss, tooth loss, and sores on the body caused by scratching severe itches. Meth abuse also causes brain damage such as impaired learning, emotional issues, and compromised motor skills.
Symptoms of meth abuse include loss of appetite, hypertension, hyperactivity, irregular pulse, heavy breathing, and tachycardia. Anxiety, loss of sleep, disorientation, and violent conduct are other classic symptoms of meth addiction. Addicts may hallucinate, feel paranoid, and display irrational fear. Addicts who develop tolerance to meth are at risk of convulsions that may lead to death.
Long-term harm includes brain damage similar to that seen in patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, liver and lung damage, and damaged blood vessels that can precipitate a heart attack.
Meth abuse in America can be traced to the 50s. Non-therapeutical use of meth was popularized by truck drivers, students, and sportspersons who took it to stay alert and fight fatigue. Meth abuse became even more widespread over the next two decades.
Illegal manufacture, sale, and possession attract federal and state charges. The latter may vary with the jurisdiction; however, federal charges will remain the same. Punitive action may vary from a fine to a long jail term over felony charges. Punishment is harsher if the person in possession of meth is shown to be possessing the drug in order to traffic it.
Meth trafficking is difficult to crack down on because the drug is relatively easy to produce, and can be manufactured in makeshift laboratories. The raw materials used in meth manufacture are easily available; they include paint thinner, ether, acetone, iodine, red phosphorus, and battery acid.
Meth addicts are easy to identify. If you know one, and wish to help him, then contact The Villa Treatment Center. Our trained recovery experts will draw a rehab plan ideal to help the addict recover. Call us. 1-818-639-7160