Methamphetamine increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. Like cocaine and speed, even small amounts of meth can cause a rapid and/or irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure and elevated body temperatures. These symptoms, especially when meth is taken at high doses, can cause death from stroke, heart attack or organ failure caused by overheating.
Meth is a highly addictive drug-and repeated use can negatively affect your body and brain. Abuse can cause extreme weight loss, dental problems (commonly referred to as “meth mouth”), violent behavior, paranoia, hallucinations, and lead to sores and scabs on your skin and face due to intense itching. One of the most common meth delusions is the feeling of insects crawling under the skin.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. Drug Facts: Methamphetamine.
U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Drugs of Abuse: Stimulants.
Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that is both long-lasting and toxic to the central nervous system. Its chemistry is similar to speed (amphetamine), but methamphetamine has far more dangerous effects on the body’s central nervous system and may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
AKA: METH, ICE, CRANK, CRYSTAL, GLASS, SPEED