Signs of Meth Use You’ll Notice

If you or someone you love are using methamphetamine, you will surely notice some symptoms of the drug’s effect on the central nervous system. Signs of meth use are unique, far-reaching and extreme.

People who abuse meth can often be identified at “first glance,” even by those with little information about the individual or their lifestyle. Meth abuse changes individuals so much that online forums chronicle the drug’s effects through photo forums depicting “before-and-after” images of people using methamphetamine.

Signs of Meth Use Were Once Considered a Benefit

The medical community historically used methamphetamine for legitimate health conditions. Now known on the street as meth, ice, crystal and chalk, meth was originally prescribed to patients early in the 20th century. Methamphetamine was compounded for use in bronchial inhalers and nasal decongestants.

Later, the drug was prescribed for weight loss and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. These prescriptions were provided after doctors realized that increased activity, decreased appetite, euphoria and extreme talkativity were side effects of the stimulant. It was believed that these signs of meth use could be beneficial when applied toward the right healthcare conditions. But the doses were much lower than patients typically take as part of drug abuse.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, doctors can still prescribe methamphetamine today, but this is rarely done. The US Drug Enforcement Administration classifies meth as a Schedule II drug, meaning it is only available through a non-refillable prescription.

Fortunately, methamphetamine isn’t as easy for patients to acquire false prescriptions as it is for painkillers. Why is this the case? Because it’s easy for healthcare providers to spot signs of meth use and prevent legal provision of the drug for abuse. As a result of these easy indicators, “doctor shopping” isn’t the issue for meth like it is for prescription opioids.

Short- and Long-Term Signs of Meth Use You’ll Notice

If you or a loved one are the one abusing meth, signs of meth use will quickly appear. Some of the most common and easily identifiable signs of meth use include:

Short-Term Symptoms of Meth Use:

• Heightened attention
• Lessened fatigue
• Increased activity and alertness
• Lower appetite
• Euphoric behaviors and a “rush”
• Increased respiration
• Hyperthermia
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Long-Term Symptoms of Meth Use:

• Paranoia
• Repetitive activity or motions
• Hallucinations
• Thinking deficits
• Motor skill deficits
• Easy distractibility
• Loss of memory
• Violent or aggressive behaviors
• Severe dental issues
• Weight loss
• Mood disturbances
• Reduced attention to hygiene
• Changes in brain functioning and structure
• Addiction behaviors

When Signs of Meth Use Are Clear

When you realize that you or your loved one are suffering from a meth problem, it’s time to get the help to overcome that addiction. Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida specializes in rehabilitation for patients with a history of meth abuse. This treatment starts when the patient emerges from medically supervised detox and continues through comprehensive rehab programs into aftercare. This continuum of care ensures greater potential for patient recovery for the long term.

You can overcome the powerful addiction that meth presents. Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville provides the accredited, dual-diagnosis treatment you need. Take the first step to a better life by calling Beaches Recovery today at 8666050532.