Everyone knows that crystal meth is extremely dangerous, but some might not know exactly what it is. Click here to find out all of the details.
In the most recent statistics, there are reported to be 1.2 million people in the United States who have used crystal meth in the last year.
Most people have heard of crystal meth and almost all of them know that it’s a dangerous drug. And yet, many people still ask: “What is crystal meth, exactly?”
People who have taken the drug claim to experience feelings of euphoria almost immediately after use.
However, it’s extremely dangerous. It causes damage physically to your body and results in serious psychological damage.
It’s a highly addictive and powerful drug. And it’s illegal. Let’s find out more – what is crystal meth?
Why is it called Crystal Meth?
There are many other names used on the street for crystal meth. Some of these include:
- ice
- glass
- crissy
- shards
But the proper name for the drug is crystal methamphetamine.
The reason it’s mostly known as crystal meth is because its appearance is similar to chunks of clear crystals or shiny rocks.
What is Crystal Meth Made From?
The basis of crystal meth is a chemical known as pseudoephedrine. This ingredient is often found in common cold medicines as well.
However, due to its association with the production of crystal meth, the use of pseudoephedrine is also highly controlled.
When producing crystal meth, the ingredients are cooked to enhance the strength of the substance. However, the drug is also often combined with other household chemicals such as battery acid and antifreeze.
How do Users Take Crystal Meth?
The drug is usually smoked with the use of a glass pipe. However, some users simply swallow it while others prefer to inject it into their veins. Another option is to snort the drug.
Crystal meth is often referred to as a “party drug” by users.
What’s the Origin of Crystal Meth?
Like many drugs, crystal meth has a complicated past.
Methamphetamine is a man-made substance. In World War Two, the drug was used to prevent soldiers from falling asleep on duty.
It’s also been used for weight loss. In fact, it is currently used in some countries in exceptional situations to treat obesity, and other conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Where is Crystal Meth Made?
Currently, the majority of crystal meth in the United States is produced in Mexico.
Even though meth in Mexico is produced in so-called “super labs”, crystal meth is also made in the US in smaller labs.
Is Making Crystal Meth Dangerous?
If you’ve ever seen the hit TV show Breaking Bad, you’ll know that the process of making crystal meth is very dangerous as well.
The chemicals used are toxic and potentially explosive.
How Does Crystal Meth Feel?
The powerful experience of a rush of euphoria causes many users to become instantly addicted. And after the first hit, many people will do anything to experience it again.
The drug causes the natural chemical in the body called dopamine to enter the brain. This suddenly impacts the aspect of the brain that controls sensations of pleasure.
However, the body develops a tolerance for the drug. And this escalates further as the user requires a greater amount of meth to experience similar feelings.
And of course, the more crystal meth someone takes, the more dangerous it is.
What are the Side-effects of Crystal Meth?
There are many dangerous and negative side-effects of taking crystal meth. Here are just some of them:
- Increase in body temperature that causes users to pass out, or even die.
- Feelings of anxiety, extreme confusion, and inability to fall asleep.
- Severe lack of emotional control, mood swings and outbreaks of violence.
- Ageing at a quicker rate.
- Damage to skin, such as the development of dullness, sores, and pimples.
- Severe dryness of the mouth.
- Damaged, broken and yellow teeth.
- Extreme paranoia and illusions.
As we have established there are many negative and dangerous side-effects of taking crystal meth. However, it’s difficult to include every consequence of taking the drug.
Many of the side-effects include a break down of relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. The inability to function at work. Lastly, the lack of control can lead to hurting oneself, or others.
Signs of Use of Crystal Meth
Are you concerned that someone you know is a crystal meth user? Check out some of these potential signs of meth use:
- Lack of care and consideration for appearance
- Lack of hygiene
- Obsessive habits, such as picking skin
- Lack of appetite
- Dangerous weight loss
- Dilated pupils
- Unusual sleeping times – staying awake for days
- Erratic movements
- Constant and repetitive talk
- Obsessive fidgeting and twitching
- Unusual financial decisions, selling possessions
- Stealing or criminal activity
- Emotional outbursts and anger
- Paranoia
If you suspect someone you know is using crystal meth, contact a professional as soon as possible. It’s not enough to just know – what is crystal meth? You need to know if someone is a user.
How Treat Addiction to Crystal Meth?
Now you can answer the question – what is crystal meth?
As one of the most powerful and addictive drugs, crystal meth addiction is difficult to treat.
However, it is possible and achievable. Many people have been addicted to crystal meth and have come out the other side. However, the best way to treat addiction is to never start in the first place.
Overcoming an addiction to meth is a serious problem that requires professional expertise and experience.
If you or someone you know is addicted to crystal meth, we have expert addiction specialists ready to speak confidentially at all times. Get in touch with us today.
