Side Effects of Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is an addictive drug that stimulates the central nervous system. This drug is a pure form of amphetamine, and over the past decade has become a drug of abuse. People who are completely dependent on methamphetamine, are at great risk of losing their ability to cope with stress and work. This drug can be snorted, smoked, injected or ingested orally. As soon as methamphetamine is administered, the immediate side effects of this drug include decreased appetite and increased activity. The drug is prescribed for patients who have attention deficit disorders, obesity and narcolepsy.

Serious side effects of methamphetamine are not common. However, they are an indication of a serious problem, and require immediate consultation of a doctor. These are:

• Suicidal tendencies
• Heart palpitations
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Uncontrolled movements of the mouth, arms, neck or head
• Restlessness
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as itching and unexplained rash

As methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant, it causes chemical reactions in the brain. As a result, the release of brain chemical dopamine, involved in motivation, increases. Prolong usage of this drug can affect the brain functions. Why many like to use methamphetamine, is because it increases alertness and produces euphoria (a feeling of great joy and excitement). That is why people taking this drug regularly, can stay awake for a long time. Sleep deprivation is the most common side effect of methamphetamine. This eventually leads to feeling tired and depressed. Chemical imbalances in the brain can cause:

• Hallucinations (the perception of something that is not really present)
• Extreme paranoia
• Bizarre, violent behavior
• Mood disturbances

Methamphetamine being a powerful stimulant gives a feeling of increased energy. An intense sensation or rush is experienced for a short time when the drug is injected in the body. This happens because high levels of dopamine is released into specific areas of the brain that control feelings of pleasure. Short term side effects of methamphetamine are as follows:

• Increased attention
• Feeling of extreme happiness
• Decreased fatigue
• Rapid weight loss
• Increased respiration

Side effects of methamphetamine observed in clinical trials, in which a group of people were given this drug, have been studied and documented. They are as listed below:

• Headache
• Increased blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Unpleasant feelings
• Insomnia
• Shakiness
• Abnormally good mood
• Changes in sex drive or impotence (the drug may destroy sex drive)

People who often use methamphetamine are at great risk of damaging their brain cells. The drug can also cause a number of cardiovascular problems, such as irregular heartbeat. Continuous usage of the drug can cause extensive damage to your body. Although the drug initially gives pleasurable effects, long term use can cause the following side effects:

• Seizures
• Damage to the blood vessels situated in the brain
• Excess fluid accumulates in the brain tissue, skull and lungs
• Hyperpyrexia (the body temperature is higher than 104 degree Celsius
• Internal bleeding; normal blood flow is disrupted which can cause damage to other parts of the body

In most cases, people who use this medicine, as prescribed by the doctor for a stipulated period, in order to cure their health problem, experience minor side effects that can be easily treated by the doctor.