Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly addictive stimulant drug. Street names include chalk, crank, ice, crystal, meth, and speed.
Methamphetamine was originally developed from amphetamine to make decongestants and bronchial inhalers. It’s much more potent that amphetamine, because it stimulates the central nervous system and gets into the brain at a much higher rate.
Since it increases the levels of naturally occurring dopamine and norepinephrine (“feel-good chemicals”) in the brain, meth often causes feelings of euphoria or a sense of well-being. This can make it very addictive. It can also cause a person to become extremely alert and talkative, and it often decreases appetite and interferes with sleep—it’s not uncommon for a person who uses meth to stay up for days at a time.
Meth abuse causes both physical and behavioral changes, including:
Long-term meth abuse can damage the brain and cause symptoms of psychosis, including paranoia, aggression, hallucinations, and delusions (such as the sensation of bugs crawling on or under the skin). These symptoms can last for years after a person stops taking the drug.
Meth dependency can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, especially in the first 24 hours after a person stops using the drug. These can include:
Symptoms vary from person to person and may last anywhere between 7 and 10 days. Some people can successfully quit using meth on their own, but most long-term users will need professional help to quit.
Meth addiction can take its toll on every aspect of a person’s life, including their health and personal and professional relationships.
The caring, compassionate staff at Adelante understands that each person is unique and has their own treatment needs. We offer multiple levels of care to accommodate all clients, wherever they are on their journey. Our Southern California meth rehab programs include:
Adelante Recovery Center’s clinical staff includes an experienced medical doctor and certified addiction treatment counselor. We tailor our programs to meet each client’s needs, and we strive to make our centers feel like a home away from home, so clients can put all their energy into recovery.
Meth recovery is possible at Adelante Recovery Center. Contact us to learn more about meth rehab and treatment in Corona del Mar, Orange County, Southern California.
If you or a loved one are in need of help with addiction, contact us today. Our professional and friendly addiction specialists are able to answer your questions and get things moving in the right direction.
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