Amphetamine was first introduced in the United States as early as the 1930s. At this time, it was called Benzedrine and was sold over the counter as an inhaler to treat nasal congestion. Within five years, this drug was available by prescription, sold in tablet form and used to treat a sleeping disorder called narcolepsy and a brain disorder called minimal brain dysfunction (MBD), which is now known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This drug was a stimulant, and able to increase an individual’s wakefulness, and was therefore widely used to keep the soldiers alert and aggressive. which was good for them as they were going during World War II. It was during this period that this period that both dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methamphetamine (Methedrine) became easy to obtain. Methamphetamine is also a stimulant drug, chemically related to amphetamine, but it has stronger central nervous system effects. This drug can be used in a pill form or in a powdered form by snorting, injecting or administered rectally.
What is Crystal Meth?
Crystal methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, ice or glass, is a more powerful form of this drug and is smokable. According to the National Institute of Justice and Methamphetamine Use 2002, the use of this drug increased dramatically in the western United States throughout the 1990s, and in recent years has advanced to other areas such as the Midwest and urban areas along the east coast.
Methamphetamine use affects structures of the brain, primarily the area that releases a neurotransmitter (chemical) called dopamine. Dopamine plays a significant role in pleasure and motivation. This neurotransmitter is strongly associated with the pleasure system in the brain, and is not only responsible for feelings of enjoyment, but continuously reinforces the activities that provide those feelings. This is why meth use is easily addictive, challenging to overcome, and explains why it has been linked to high-risk sexual behavior. Keep in mind the fact that food, sex and other naturally rewarding experiences release dopamine. There are also stimuli associated with pleasure such as sexual fetishes and certain drugs. Methamphetamine and cocaine are two drugs directly related to the release of dopamine. This explains why addiction has been linked to pathology, one capable of altering the dopamine pathways in the brain.
Signs of Meth Abuse
Early signs of meth abuse include the following:
- hyperactivity
- nervousness
- increased sweating
- aggression
- periods of long sleep (sometimes greater than 24 hours)
Signs of chronic meth abuse include the following:
- paranoia
- depression
- agitation
- weight loss due to decreased appetite
- high blood pressure
- stroke
- skin problems: welts/swelling/bumps
- cardiac problems: irregular heart rhythm, palpitations, chest pain, etc.
Treatment for Methamphetamine Abuse
As with any addiction, the focus is to find out why one is using meth, and not just the addiction itself. The first step is detoxification, aiming to clean meth out of one's system. The next step is to deal with the psychological and physical effects of meth addiction. This phase will require a long-term treatment plan that includes the 12-step program approach to recovery and sobriety. Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA) is an organization that helps people who need treatment but may feel uncomfortable seeking help. Continued methamphetamine abuse could result in death due to the mental and physical effects it has on one’s health.
Sources:
National Criminal Justice Reference Services: NCJRS.gov "Methamphetamine: A National Response" (Last Accessed July 20 2010)
National Conference of State Legislature: NCLS.org "Treatment of Meth Abuse"( Last Accessed July 19 2010)
Geneva M Edwards - As a health professional I have learned the importance of focusing on a problem as quickly as possible. After all in the health care world ...
