| Methamphetamine,
known commonly as "speed" or "crystal
meth," is an addictive stimulant that overstimulates
certain systems in the brain. Closely related to amphetamine
in chemical make-up, crystal meth affects the central
nervous system much stronger, making it a popular street
drug. While use of crystal meth plummeted in the 1970s,
it has reappeared in recent years and is once more a
serious problem.
Crystal meth is highly addictive and has a high potential
for abuse and psychological dependence. The fast, powerful
high tapers off quickly, leaving the user with a strong
desire to do more crystal meth and making this illegal
street drug a lucrative business for those who manufacture
it. Crystal meth can be smoked, snorted or injected.
One of the most potentially dangerous drugs, crystal
meth seriously affects the brain, releasing high levels
of dopamine, which stimulates brain cells, enhancing
mood and body movement. Over time, crystal meth reduces
the levels of dopamine the brain produces, which can
result in symptoms like those of Parkinson's disease,
a severe movement disorder. Then, when the user stops
taking the drug, the brain is unable to function normally.
Crystal meth can have devastating effects on human
physiology and psychology. Even small amounts have an
enormous impact on the central nervous system, including
increased wakefulness and physical activity, decreased
appetite, increased respiration, hyperthermia, euphoria,
irritability, insomnia, confusion, tremors, convulsions,
anxiety, paranoia and aggressiveness.
Crystal meth also causes increased heart rate and blood
pressure and can do irreversible damage to blood vessels
in the brain, which produces strokes. Other effects
include respiratory problems, irregular heartbeat and
extreme weight loss and can result in cardiovascular
collapse and death.
Treatment Referral provides referrals to rehabs that
effectively treat drug dependency, addressing the behavior
and thinking patterns that directly contribute to the
individual's disease and ensuring patients have a meaningful
recovery.
If drug dependency might be a problem for you or someone
you love, we encourage you to give Treatment Referral
a call today to learn more about your treatment options. |
