symptoms of methamphetamine: Methamphetamine, 6 Warning Signs

This is another in a series of articles outlining the symptoms and signs of abuse of and addiction to various dangerous drugs, both legal and illegal.

First, what is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetmine, or Meth, was first synthesized in the early part of the twentieth century and was reportedly used extensively in the second world war to keep troops, pilots and even factory workers awake and on the job. It was later prescribed for problems such as narcolepsy and to facilitate weight loss.

In the 1960s, easier methods of producing methamphetamine, (“Crystal Meth”), were developed and a huge illicit market emerged. Now one of the most troubling illegal drugs, we are seeing illegal methamphetamine production and distribution as an international plague, one that destroys people, families and communities.

Signs and Symptoms of Methamphetamine Use and Abuse

Many of the symptoms of meth abuse are nearly identical to some other drugs such as amphetamines or cocaine. These include:

1. Loss of appetite

When an otherwise healthy individual suddenly looses interest in food and eating habits are drastically reduced, this is a very good indication of illicit drug use.

2. Loss of weight

If the changes in dietary habits persist to the point of noticeable or even significant loss of weight, the indications make drug abuse even more likely.

3. Major changes in sleep habits

A person on meth tends to stay awake for long periods and then “crash” for long periods. So, two or three days with little or no sleep might be followed by 18 hours of non-stop snoozing. Then, when they do get up, they are groggy and not fully awake for hours.

4. Nervousness and hyperactivity followed by lethargic and “dopey” periods

This will become more pronounced with continued use of methamphetamine.

5. Excitability

A person using meth might be very volatile, prone to outbursts of laughter or anger and be extremely talkative for long periods, even after being awake all night. Their conversations might make perfect sense to them, but the un-drugged observer will see oddities in their logic and their degree of interest in common or mundane subjects.

6. Users will often scratch or pick at their skin or scalp

Skin can become dry and itchy on meth and hygiene is neglected, adding up to dry skin that might itch continuously and lead to incessant scratching and open sores and infections.

While degrees of these symptoms will be present in anyone who is abusing meth or some other stimulant, one or two of the symptoms does not, by itself, constitute proof of drug abuse.

If you suspect meth abuse in a family member or friend, look these over. If it looks very likely that methamphetamine use is present, calling for some professional advice on how to proceed is recommended.

 

 

Meth Use / Gender Symptoms / Dr. Dennis Embry – Dr. Dennis Embry highlights the effects of Meth use comparing gender.”Meth makes you mean”.

 

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