Methamphetamine can be used for a number of reasons. Some people use it for its ability to keep them awake for long periods of time. As a result, people use it as a study aid, to stay alert during a long drive, or to stay awake during long shifts at work.
Many people use it recreationally to experience the “high” that it induces. Many users enjoy the feelings of euphoria and confidence that it brings about. Despite meth being popular as a self-esteem booster in parties, study sessions, or business meetings as often portrayed in the media, the Schedule II drug is also given as prescription medication for conditions like ADHD.
For medicinal purposes, meth comes in the prescription form known as Desoxyn. Other than ADHD, this drug also plays a role in the short-term treatment of obesity.
How Long Does Meth Stay in Your System?
An individual’s response to the drug depends on how the drug enters the body, the type of drug (powder, pill, or crystal), the method of ingestion, the frequency of use, an individual’s metabolism, and the tolerance level of the user.
Because of these factors, there is no clear way that can pinpoint how long meth would take to leave the system. On average, it can take anything from three days to three months for the drug to be completely eliminated from the body.
Since methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant, the drug is quickly metabolized by the liver and excreted from the body in the urine, feces, and breath.
What are the Effects of Meth?
While it is used for such legitimate purposes, the U.S. government classifies methamphetamine as a Schedule II drug because it has a high potential for abuse. Despite its appeal, it is highly addictive, and users may experience a series of severe side effects if they do not know how to use it properly.
Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant, which results in a euphoric rush and induces energy, alertness, empathy, mental clarity, and a sense of invincibility and strength.
The effects of the drug can be felt almost immediately, with a full alertness and energy boost lasting three to four hours. In addition to a rush, the drug induces feelings of euphoria, increased libido, increased self-confidence, and a reduction in appetite.
Here is a list of short-term side effects of meth use:
- Loss of Appetite;
- Increased heart rate, higher body temperature, and high blood pressure;
- Irregular heartbeat;
- Hyperthermia;
- Increased activity-lots of energy;
- Excitement;
- Nausea;
- Erratic behavior, sometimes resulting in violent behavior;
- Panic;
- Psychosis;
- Irritability;
- Dry Mouth;
- Trouble Sleeping;
- Increased Libido;
- Sensations of itching or muscle spasms;
- Convulsions;
- Seizures;
Even a single use of meth can cause severe damage to the brain, heart, and blood vessels. The brain damage that occurs from meth use creates an enduring, potentially permanent, neurological fallout.
Meth is highly addictive and can lead to extreme behavior, such as violence, paranoia, and hallucinations. This drug use also comes with the following dangerous side effects:
- Organ damage, especially to the liver, kidneys, and lungs;
- Tooth decay;
- Malnutrition or severe weight loss;
- Depression;
- Brain damage resulting in short term memory issues;
- Inability to concentrate;
- Sores or abscesses on the skin;
- Stroke;
- Epilepsy;
- Psychosis;
- Addiction;
The above side effects are only a few of the worst side effects associated with methamphetamine use. These effects typically occur in more severe cases, especially when the drug is used over an extended period of time. Recognizing the signs of methamphetamine use can be the first step to getting help.
If you are struggling with a meth addiction, know that you are not alone. Whether you are seeking treatment, or know someone who needs help, call our helpline today for more information about treatment options near you.
How Long Does Meth Effects Last?
Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that can be smoked, snorted, ingested, and injected (intravenously) for the purpose of inducing euphoria and suppressing appetite.
The effects of meth abuse can be felt almost immediately, with a full alertness and energy boost lasting three to four hours. In addition to a rush, the drug induces feelings of euphoria, increased libido, increased self-confidence, and a reduction in appetite.
There are several ways of consuming methamphetamine, and each different way can have a different effect on the body. This can have a profound impact on the length and severity of meth withdrawal.
However, the effects of meth abuse can be felt almost immediately, with a full alertness and energy boost lasting three to four hours. In addition to a rush, the drug induces feelings of euphoria, increased libido, increased self-confidence, and a reduction in appetite.
How Do You Consume Meth?
Methamphetamine is used in a variety of ways, including snorted, taken orally, and smoked. Each form of use can present unique challenges to trying to pass a drug test.
When methamphetamine is taken orally, it can take as long as 24 hours before the drug leaves the body. Meth not used intravenously will stay in the body for a longer period of time, sometimes up to several days.
Methamphetamine abuse can lead to a number of side effects, many of which are severe. The effects of methamphetamine abuse can be felt almost immediately but can result in an extended period of time before the drug leaves the body.
What Are The Signs of Meth Use?
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Users of meth will experience a rush of euphoria, as well as increased energy, libido, self-confidence, and appetite suppression. Many people who abuse the drug will binge, or binge-and-crash.
Oral meth that is not used intravenously is metabolized slowly, which makes it stay in the body for several days. Because of this, regular users may develop a tolerance to the drug, leading them to take increasingly higher doses.
While meth is generally a white, odorless, bitter-tasting iced powder, it can also be found in the off-white, yellow, or pink colored crystal. Crystal meth is most commonly smoked, while powder and pills are typically snorted or swallowed. Because of the common routes of use, methamphetamine can be detected in different ways in the body.
The Bottom Line: Understanding Meth Use, How Long It Stays in Your System, and Identifying if a Loved One is Abuse It
Methamphetamine can be a very dangerous drug, and once it is abused repeatedly, it can be difficult to stop. Having an idea of how long meth stays in the system can help in assessing whether or not an individual has a problem.
The drug is commonly abused in the United States because it provides a rush of euphoria and energy. This makes meth a highly addictive drug. It is important to know the warning signs of meth use, as well as how long it stays in the system, so you can help a loved one who is abusing it.
It is also important to realize that making the decision to quit using meth can be difficult. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to help you quit for good. If you are struggling with a methamphetamine addiction, there is hope. Call our toll-free helpline today to speak with a counselor about treatment options and the next steps.
