A relatively new epidemic has begun taking its toll on the United States. As the highly addictive stimulant, methamphetamine, has grown in popularity, meth addiction has become a national problem.
Meth addiction stems from the drug's ability to cause an accretion of dopamine in the brain, resulting in persistent euphoric feelings. Since meth does not leave the brain as quickly as other stimulants, it is thought to be more addictive then both cocaine and heroin.
Symptoms
- Irregular/abnormal sleep patterns
- Insomnia
- Increased irritability
- Scabs or sores (meth mites)
- Increased paranoia
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid heartbeat
- Increased body temperature
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor for more information on Meth Addiction.
Meth Prevention from Recovering Users
Many meth addicts hit rock bottom before realizing they have a problem. Some lose everything they have, including their jobs, homes and even their children. Some even lose their lives. Many testimonials from people recovering from meth addictions can be found throughout the internet. So hope that they can help others learn from their mistakes.
Meth Addiction News
- Google News: Meth Addiction
- HealthDay: Researchers Define Mechanism of Methamphetamine Addiction (April 9, 2008)
- "Long-term exposure to methamphetamine caused a depression of the synaptic dopamine machinery in the corticostriatal region that lasted for months after the mice were no longer given the drug. However, a dose of methamphetamine reversed the depressive effects on the synaptic dopamine machinery."
- Deseret Morning News: Meth addiction targeted (September 25, 2007)
- FOXNews.com: Nebraska Researchers Eye Vaccine as Meth Addiction Treatment (August 23, 2006)
- ABC News: 'Full House' Sweetheart Talks About Addiction (February 1, 2006)
- CBS News: Faces Of Meth Addiction (April 29, 2005)
- San Francisco Chronicle: Sam's story - Walnut Creek teen's road from meth (May 6, 2003)
- MSNBC.com: Beating an addiction to meth (February 2001)
References
Fast Facts
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Drugs
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Addiction Type
Mental, then overtime physical addiction occurs
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Fact:
Many physical and psychological ramifications
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Fact:
52% of users attempt suicide
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Fact:
Serious withdrawal symptoms
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Fact:
