Methamphetamine

Nearly one million Americans ages 12 and older suffer from methamphetamine use disorder. Like other highly addictive drugs, methamphetamine alters brain chemistry, which increases the desire and need for the drug. The experienced team at 2nd Chance Treatment Center in Phoenix, Glendale, and Gilbert, Arizona, includes addiction specialists who offer comprehensive care to those struggling with methamphetamine addiction. Call or click the online booking button to schedule an evaluation today.

What is methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine, or meth, is a highly addictive stimulant that affects your central nervous system. The illegal drug is similar to amphetamine, which is a prescription medication used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. However, even when given in the same doses, more methamphetamine can reach the brain than amphetamine, resulting in a greater risk of addiction and health consequences. 

People who use methamphetamine may smoke, swallow, snort, or inject the drug. The stimulant increases activity, makes you more talkative, and decreases your appetite.

How does methamphetamine alter brain chemistry?

Methamphetamine increases the amount of dopamine in your brain. This neurotransmitter is part of your brain’s reward system and invokes feelings of pleasure and euphoria. The drug floods the brain with dopamine, increasing the brain’s desire for the reward. Over time, your brain develops a tolerance to the drug and you need to take more to get the same effects. 

What are the health consequences of methamphetamine use?

Long-term use of methamphetamine can lead to chronic health problems beyond the addiction and the effect the drug may have on your personal life, including your job, family, and friends. Health consequences of methamphetamine use include:

• Weight loss
• Anxiety
• Dental problems
• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Altered brain structure and function
• Difficulty sleeping
• Violent behavior
• Paranoia

The drug may also affect coordination and impair verbal learning. Long-term use of methamphetamine may damage the emotional and cognitive areas of your brain. 

You can also overdose if you take too much methamphetamine. The toxicity of the drug may cause a stroke or heart attack. If not properly treated, a methamphetamine overdose can lead to death. 

How is methamphetamine addiction treated?

The addiction specialists at 2nd Chance Treatment Center develop individualized treatment plans for methamphetamine addiction. The team works closely with you to develop a plan that reduces your cravings for the drug and your risk of relapse.

Your treatment plan may include cognitive behavioral therapy at 2nd Chance Treatment Center’s comprehensive outpatient center, along with motivational incentives such as specific rewards to help you stay drug-free. 

With care from the experts at 2nd Chance Treatment Center, you can recover from your methamphetamine addiction. Call the office or book online today to schedule an appointment so you can get the help you need.