Methamphetamine

METHAMPHETAMINE

C10H15N

Methamphetamine [n-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-amine] also known as ice, meth or crystal meth is a highly addictive synthetic stimulant. It can be present in the form of pill, powder or crystal. The solid form is translucent and nearly clear and in the form of powder is white. Meth can be snort, smoke, inject or orally consumed.

It considerably increases the release of dopamine and serotonin in parts of the brain, which generate a state of euphoria. Long-term use affects the production and / or usage of the neurotransmitters chemical compound in the brain.

When consumed, the user experiences a sense of empowerment and extreme vigilance. It makes the user feel particularly strong and intelligent. From a physiological perspective, the consumption of the drug increases the heart rate and the blood pressure, accelerates the respiration, dilates the pupil and makes the sweat glands work intensively. It shifts the perception of the individual, causes lost in appetite and alters the general conditions due to malnutrition and insomnia leading to a state of exhaustion, nervousness and psychological disorders [anxiety, agitation, irritability, panic, psychosis, paranoia]. It also increases the body temperature- hyperthermia- and convulsions may occur. The effects can last several hours. Methamphetamine can cause irreversible damages to the blood vessels in the brain resulting in a stroke or other organ failure.

Meth suppresses white blood cells capable of neutralizing germs, viruses and bacteria. Users are more susceptible to getting infections or diseases. The collapse of the immune system also slows the healing process. Side effects may also arise [dizziness, headache, dryness, fainting, confusion, vomiting, sickness, diarrhea, palpitations and involuntary muscle contractions]. Damages to the nerves and seizures may as well occur.

It impairs the frontal lobe, which govern judgment and impulse control. The user may become irrational as well as delusional. Ice can cause long-term cognitive impairment, compromising the development of intellectual and motor functions and the performance of basic tasks.

Prolonged use can lead to skin problems and cause lesions. The teeth decay and eventually crack. Behaviors of schizophrenia are also observed, as well as a loss of concentration. Frequent consumption is responsible for severe physical and psychological dependence.

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