Meth is popular all over the United States. Some people use meth to give themselves more energy and make them more productive. It is also popular as a party drug at raves and clubs. Rural areas may be particularly prone to meth addiction because meth labs are easier to run in more remote locations. A lower police presence in spread-out areas may contribute to an increased production of meth.

What is meth made of and the dangers associated with each ingredient?

The common ingredients of meth —along with where they’re found and their associated dangers— include: Acetone is found in nail polish remover and paint thinner. It’s extremely flammable. Anhydrous Ammonia is found in fertilizer and some cleaners. Mixing it with other chemicals creates a toxic gas. Ephedrine/Pseudoephedrine is found in some cold medicines and diet pills. It can harm the respiratory system, nervous system, and heart in large quantities. Hydrochloric Acid is used to make plastic. It is so corrosive that it can remove rust from steel and is capable of eating away flesh. Lithium is found in batteries. It burns the skin, is highly explosive, and reacts violently with water. Red phosphorus is found on matchboxes, in road flares, and in other explosives. It is highly flammable. Toluene is found in brake fluid. It is so corrosive it can dissolve rubber. Sodium Hydroxide or lye is used to dissolve roadkill. It is corrosive and can also burn skin or cause blindness. Sulfuric Acid is found in drain cleaner or toilet cleaner. It is corrosive and can also burn the skin.

What does meth look like?

In most cases, methamphetamine is in the form of a crystalline white powder. The powder has no odor, it tastes bitter, and it dissolves in water easily. There may be other colors as well including brown, pink, or yellow-gray. Crystal meth, on the other hand, comes as clear crystals that look like ice.

How does meth affect the brain?

Methamphetamine affects a number of the brain’s neurotransmitters, but the most affected is dopamine or the pleasure neurotransmitter. When triggered, dopamine sends pleasure signals to various parts of the body and brain and is then stored for later use. When a person uses meth, an excess of dopamine is released into the brain causing users to feel an excess of pleasure or a high. Unlike normal brain functionality, the dopamine released is not recycled and stored for later, which in turn overstimulates the brain. Instead, it remains in the body until the high is replaced with the crash of unpleasant feelings. In order to replicate that feeling and avoid the crash, users will want more of the drug at higher doses.

How long does meth stay in your system?

The half-life of meth is relatively long and can range from 10 to 12 hours for most people. In other words, during those 10 to 12 hours, 50 percent of the meth that was ingested would be out of your system. Based on the half-life, meth may show up in your body for nearly three days following the most recent use. How meth is administered can affect the half-life and how long meth stays in your body .

How do I know if someone is on crystal meth?

People on meth typically exhibit certain physical signs. If you’re wondering how to tell if someone is on crystal meth or is abusing crystal meth , symptoms of this drug can include being very awake or physically active and a reduced appetite. Behavioral signs include being very alert or physically active, reduced appetite and weight loss, outbursts or mood swings, and paranoia or hallucinations. Some of the more visible signs of meth use can include dilated pupils, extreme tooth decay, skin sores, exaggerated mannerisms, and rapid breathing.

Methamphetamine (Meth) Addiction & Abuse: Signs, Symptoms, & Dangers

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