Meth and Long-term Effects of the New Epidemic

Meth: The Basics

nervous system. It goes by many names: blue, ice, crystal, and, put, Meth. Often, it will take the form of a bitter-tasting, odorless, white powder. According to the NIDA, about 1.6 million people in the U.S. reported using Methamphetamine in 2017. This accounts for about 0.6 of the total population, a level of epidemic proportions.

In the same year, the National Survey of Drug Use and Health claims:

“An estimated 964,000 people aged 12 or older (about 0.4 percent of the population) had a methamphetamine use disorder in 2017—that is, they reported clinically significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home as a result of their drug use.”

Being created from its parent drug, amphetamine, Meth was originally used for colds, coughs, nasal congestion, and bronchial inhalers. Over time, drug dealers found out how to take the pseudoephedrine from these common medicines.

As a result, millions of dollars are made each year by drug smugglers from Methamphetamine. This is due to continual use by users because of the extremely addictive properties. The NIDA says the effects of Meth are similar to amphetamine but delivered in overdrive. Making it easy to get addicted.

With addiction to Methamphetamine on the rise and the DEA helping as much as possible, many wonder what can be done about the problem. Also, many wonder what the long-term consequences of misusing Meth include.

Back to Life: Overcoming Meth and Gambling Addiction 

Where Is Meth Often Found?

Meth can be found in any state across the country. However, there are areas of the U.S. that are more affected by Meth than others.

Geography Plays A Huge Role in Availability

There are many different conclusions the DEA has come to regarding the stark difference between meth use in the Midwest and western states in comparison to the eastern states.

One of the reasons has to do with location. Geographically, Mexico sits just south of the areas of the country most affected. Unfortunately, this is where a lot of illegal drugs, including Meth, enter the country.

How The U.S. if Fighting Against the Meth Epidemic

Despite the U.S. and Mexico working together to stop TCOs from selling Meth over the border, the problem persists. This is because of the simple technique smugglers use to make the drug itself.

With most Methamphetamine being cooked by TCOs in Mexico and their ability to hide it from law enforcement makes it difficult for the DEA to find stable footing.

Not to mention the sale of these drugs to younger people in clubs causes more addiction. Thus, creating demand for more of the drug.

How to Identify if Someone is Using Meth

Typically, those who use Meth consistently have an addiction or a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). A meth user with a SUD can be identified if you know what signs to look for.

Overall, noticing these signs in someone who has a Meth SUD could save their life.

Meth Use Physical Signs

• pupil dilation
• quick, jerky eye movements
• facial twitching
• increased sweating
• high body temperature
• jerky or twitchy body movements or tremors
• decreased appetite and weight loss
• tooth decay
• visibly high energy and excitement (euphoria)
• frequent scratching or picking at the hair and skin
• sores on the face and skin
• constant, rapid speech
• headaches

Meth Use Behavioral Signs

• increased activity, like hyperactivity or restlessness
• impulsive or unpredictable behavior
• aggressive or violent reactions
• anxious, nervous, or irritable behavior
• suspicion of others (paranoia) or other irrational beliefs (delusions)
• seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations)
• going with little or no sleep for days at a time

Once the effects of meth fade, they may experience a low that involves:

• extreme exhaustion
• feelings of depression
• extreme irritability

Although these signs may indicate a meth addiction or SUD, it is important to remember that these also may be signs of more common problems.

Such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, skin conditions, or dental issues.

It may not be wise to assume your friend or a family member has a SUD in these cases. However, knowing the signs is better than not knowing.