Methamphetamine Use: Effects, Addiction & Treatment

Methamphetamines are addictive, lab-made stimulants that are chemically similar to amphetamines, but with more severe effects on the body’s central nervous system.  

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved methamphetamine for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as for short-term treatment of obesity. It is classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule II stimulant, which makes it legally available only through a nonrefillable prescription. The brand name for prescription methamphetamine is Desoxyn®.⁷  

While Desoxyn® is available as a pill or powder, illicit methamphetamine is a white, odorless crystalline powder that is snorted or smoked, or else dissolved in water or alcohol and injected into the veins of the user.¹ Street names for methamphetamine include “meth,” “speed,” “ice,” and “crank.⁷

Meth vs Crystal Meth

Crystal methamphetamine is a form of methamphetamine that typically resembles small fragments of glass or shiny blue-white “rocks” of various sizes. These rocks are smoked using glass pipes. Crystal meth can also be dissolved and injected.  

Like powdered methamphetamine, crystal meth is used for its euphoric effects. However, crystal meth often has a higher purity level than methamphetamine, which can produce more intense and longer-lasting effects. Whereas taking methamphetamine will not feel its effects for three to five minutes (snorting) or 15 to 20 minutes (oral ingestion), a person who smokes or injects crystal meth will immediately experience its intense sensations, followed by a high that can last 12 or more hours.^2,3

Due to its relatively simple chemical process, methamphetamine is often produced illegally in illicit laboratories that have emerged across the U.S., especially in California’s Central Valley, Arizona, and Texas. Meanwhile, the rise of Mexico-based drug traffickers and independent meth labs has led to large-scale production in the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, and parts of the Southeast and Northeast.³  

In both its powdered and crystallized form, methamphetamine enters the brain quickly to produce an intense “rush” of euphoria in the user. This makes the drug highly reinforcing, leading to repeated use and, over time, physical dependency. For this reason, methamphetamine can be highly addictive.  

It is important to note that physical dependence on methamphetamine and meth addiction are different conditions. Physical dependence is characterized by the body’s adaptation to the drug, leading to a higher tolerance, or the body’s ability to process ever-larger doses of the drug, and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if usage is stopped.  

People who have developed an addiction to methamphetamine have what is called a stimulant use disorder. The symptoms of stimulant use disorder include:¹  

• Consuming methamphetamine in larger amounts or for longer than intended 
• Persistently and unsuccessfully wanting to cut down or regulate drug use 
• Spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, or recovering from meth’s effects  
• Experiencing strong drug cravings whenever not using 
• Failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home because of drug use 
• Continuing to use methamphetamine even if it causes significant social or interpersonal problems 
• Reducing or stopping preferred activities because of drug use 
• Repeatedly using methamphetamine in situations where it is unsafe 
• Continuing to use methamphetamine even when knowing that it will cause physical or psychological problems

Aside from the relaxation and euphoria it evokes in the user, a large number of physical and psychological side effects may be felt when using methamphetamine. Meth side effects include:^1,2 

• Rapid heart rate 
• Increased blood pressure 
• Damage to small blood vessels in the brain, which can lead to stroke 
• Inflammation of the heart lining 
• Insomnia 
• Confusion 
• Paranoia 
• Anxiety 
• Violent episodes 
• Nonfatal overdose, or “overamping” 
• Fatal overdose 

Different methods of use, including smoking, snorting, or injection, can have different side effects. For instance, illicit methamphetamine users who inject the drug run an increased risk of contracting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B and C, and other blood-borne viruses. Long-term methamphetamine users who inject the drug also risk scarred or collapsed veins, pneumonia, tuberculosis, skin abscesses, and liver and kidney disease.² 

Chronic methamphetamine users of all types risk contracting “meth mouth.” Meth mouth is a common consequence of long term methamphetamine use, resulting in tooth decay and painful oral tissue inflammation that can easily progress to tooth loss. This is because methamphetamine reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth, promoting bacterial growth.⁴

Can You Overdose on Meth?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on meth. In fact, methamphetamine is the second most commonly found substance in fatal overdose cases in the U.S., following synthetic opioids like fentanyl.⁵  

People can overdose on methamphetamine alone or in combination with other drugs, particularly heroin and fentanyl. People may use these drugs together purposely, or they may be unknowingly using methamphetamine that has been laced with fentanyl. Meth overdose signs include:⁶  

• Sweating 
• Dizziness 
• Increase body temperature 
• Racing heart rate 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Severe headache 
• Dark urine 
• Slurring or jumbled speech 
• Lack of mobility 
• Shaking 
• Chest pain 
• Difficulty or slowed breathing 
• Coma 
• Blue or gray skin and lips

When a person who has been using methamphetamine for a long time suddenly stops taking the drug, they may quickly experience meth withdrawal symptoms. Methamphetamine withdrawal can be uncomfortable but is not life-threatening. Withdrawal symptoms tend to peak two to three days after their last drug use and can go on for up to one week. After this first phase of meth withdrawal, a person may still experience low mood, anxiety, and drug cravings for several months afterward. 

Meth withdrawal symptoms include:¹  

• Depression 
• Anxiety 
• Irritability 
• Trouble concentrating 
• Pain and discomfort 
• Sleep problems 
• Drug cravings 

Meth addiction can be treated in various settings, though it ought to begin with detox, which is the process of ridding the substance from the body. Meth detox typically takes between three and seven days.

After completing meth detox, the patient typically moves through one or more meth addiction treatment programs to help them develop coping mechanisms and avoid relapse. These treatments include partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and outpatient (OP). 

Many addiction treatment plans offer dual diagnosis treatment, which simultaneously addresses the drug addiction plus any co-occurring mental health disorders, the most common being anxiety and depression. Finding the right methamphetamine addiction treatment depends on factors like the patient’s health history, the substance or substances to which they are addicted, and the length of their addiction.

We offer several distinct levels of care at our methamphetamine rehab in Atlanta. The best treatment option will depend on the unique clinical needs of the individual. Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive meth addiction treatment options. 

Medical Detox 

This is the initial stage of treatment for many individuals battling meth addiction. During medical detox, clients are closely monitored by medical professionals in a safe and controlled environment. The goal is to manage and alleviate withdrawal symptoms, which can be particularly intense and sometimes dangerous for meth users. Medical interventions, comfort measures, and around-the-clock care ensure that the detoxification process is as safe and comfortable as possible.

Partial Hospitalization

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) are a step down from the intensity of a medical detox. Clients participate in therapeutic activities and counseling for most of the day but return home or to a sober living environment in the evenings. This level of care provides a structured setting, typically five days a week, allowing individuals to engage intensively in recovery while gradually reintegrating into daily life.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are less intense than PHP and are designed for individuals who need a structured treatment setting but also have a level of stability in their environment. Sessions usually take place several days a week, and clients continue to participate in group and individual therapies while having more freedom to engage in their daily responsibilities outside of treatment.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is the least restrictive level of care. It is tailored for individuals who have either completed more intensive levels of care or have a mild addiction without requiring detox. Clients attend therapy sessions weekly, including group counseling, individual therapy, and other therapeutic activities. This level of care provides flexibility, allowing individuals to maintain work, school, and other daily responsibilities while receiving the support they need for recovery.

At Empowered Recovery Center in Atlanta, we know that breaking free from long-term methamphetamine use isn’t easy. However, lasting recovery is possible with the proper support. Our meth addiction treatment programs are built to help you take back control and effect positive changes in your life. We boast a range of treatment programs designed to meet your individual needs, from partial hospitalization (PHP) to intensive outpatient (IOP) and outpatient (OP) treatment.  

We also go that extra mile beyond meth treatment, providing one full year of recovery coaching at no cost so that you continue feeling supported well into your recovery journey. Wondering about the cost of rehab or using insurance for rehab? Our admissions team is here to walk you through your payment options and even verify your insurance benefits for you. Contact us today and start building toward the life you deserve.

References  

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (2024). Methamphetamine. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved February 19, 2025, from https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/methamphetamine 
2. Department of Justice/U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (n.d.). Crystal Methamphetamine: Fast Facts. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Retrieved February 19, 2025, from https://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs5/5049/5049p.pdf 
3. U.S. National Library of Medicine (2023). Methamphetamine. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved February 19, 2025, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535356/
4. U.S. National Library of Medicine (2021). Understanding the Basis of METH Mouth Using a Rodent Model of Methamphetamine Injection, Sugar Consumption, and Streptococcus mutans Infection. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved February 20, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8092307/ 
5. U.S. National Library of Medicine (2022). The Continued Rise of Methamphetamine Use Among People Who Use Heroin in the United States. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved February 21, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8282713/ 
6. Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division. (2022). A Quick Introduction to Methamphetamine Overdose (Overamping) for Public Health Professionals. Oregon Health Authority. Retrieved February 21, 2025, from https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYENVIRONMENTS/TRACKINGASSESSMENT/ENVIRONMENTALHEALTHASSESSMENT/Documents/Methamphetamine-Overdose-Overview_Oregon_Dec2022.pdf
7. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. (2024). Drug Fact Sheet: Methamphetamine. Department of Justice/Drug Enforcement Administration. Retrieved April 3, 2025, from https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/methamphetamine