Meth, also known as methamphetamine, is a highly addictive illegal stimulant. It is a white powdered drug that can lead to dependency after the first use. Like all drugs, meth sends chemicals to the brain, increasing dopamine, the chemical responsible for pleasure and joy. The drug creates more dopamine than the brain, causing joy and elation. These pleasurable feelings contribute to the drug’s highly addictive nature. Like other drugs, users quickly develop a tolerance to meth. This leads to higher doses and frequent overdose. Those attempting to quit meth use struggle without a rehab program. Meth addiction treatment programs can help mitigate the long- and short-term effects of meth use and prevent relapse.

If you or someone you love are trying to detox from methamphetamine, our Atlanta Detox Center team can help. Our meth detox center provides the support that you or a loved one may need to overcome addiction. Call Atlanta Detox Center today to learn more about our meth detox programs at 470-450-2355 or complete our online form.

Physical Effects of Meth Addiction

Meth is inexpensive and easy to get. This makes the drug very popular among a broad demographic of people. Meth can be smoked, snorted, or injected, causing an immediate rush of dopamine. This rush increases heart rate and blood pressure. Sometimes it can even lead to cardiac arrest and death.

There are clear physical effects of meth addiction. Many users develop sores from picking moles, scabs, and patches of dry skin. Smoking meth can lead to visible tooth decay and tooth loss, while injecting meth leads to collapsed veins. These signs might be easier for loved ones to notice.

Other common physical effects of meth addiction include:

  • Paranoia
  • Hyperactivity
  • Increased alertness
  • Manic behavior
  • Drastic weight loss

Long-Term and Short-Term Effects of Meth Addiction

All drugs have long- and short-term effects on the brain and body. These effects are based on a person’s body chemistry and how frequently they use drugs. Meth can stay in your body for a long time, especially if you take it frequently. The longer someone takes meth, the less dopamine their brain will naturally produce. Over time, the brain may stop making dopamine altogether. When they attempt to stop using, the lack of natural dopamine can cause intense side effects of meth addiction, including:

  • Temporary psychosis
  • Increased hunger
  • Emotional outbursts
  • Paranoia
  • Self-harm
  • Extreme fatigue

These and other effects of meth addiction can lead to relapse and further drug use. Many withdrawal symptoms last weeks, months, or even years. This is called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) and is best mitigated by a doctor. Over time, the brain can begin producing dopamine on its own, and side effects will lessen. While the brain repairs, the body will also start to repair damaged tissue. Of course, collapsed veins and tooth loss cannot be reversed.

The best way to prevent the long-term effects of meth addiction is to stop using meth as soon as possible. While many people attempt to quit cold turkey at home, it’s not the best option. Detox centers and reputable clinics can provide safe, medically assisted detox. These detox programs prevent health complications and can ease withdrawal symptoms. With professional support, relapse is less likely to occur.

Begin Your Recovery Journey with Meth Detox at Atlanta Detox Center

If you or someone you love is ready to detox from methamphetamine, contact Atlanta Detox Center today. Our detox and recovery programs include:

  • Men’s detox
  • Women’s detox
  • Residential addiction treatment
  • Drug detox
  • Medical detox
  • Alumni program

Allow the comprehensive care at Atlanta Detox Center to help you regain control of your life. Our team helps clients address life stressors and addiction triggers to overcome alcohol and drug dependency. Call us today at 470-450-2355 or complete our online form to begin your road to recovery at our meth detox center.

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