Crystal Meth Abuse

Methamphetamine is a drug with high potential for abuse and addiction. It activates the psychological reward system via a cascading release of dopamine in the brain. Effects include euphoria and enhanced alertness, concentration, energy, and libido.

Street names include Tina, meth, ice, speed, and crank.

Primary withdrawal symptoms from methamphetamine are fatigue, depression, and increased appetite. These symptoms can last for days after occasional use and weeks or months after chronic use. Additional symptoms for chronic users include anxiety, irritability, agitation, headaches, akathisia, and excessive sleepiness.

Crystal meth use should not be stopped all at once. To ensure safety, it should be slowly reduced in a medically supervised detox environment.

Signs of Crystal Meth Addiction:

  • Developing meth mouth
  • Reduced appetite
  • Bizarre behavior
  • Paranoia
  • Short-term memory loss

Signs of a Crystal Meth Overdose:

  • Coma
  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Convulsions
  • Rise in body temperature
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Seeing spots

Seek help from Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center if you or a loved one is battling crystal meth addiction. Call us at 954-734-2001 to schedule a no-cost assessment or ask about insurance coverage.

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