Crystal methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful stimulant drug that allows the user to experience an intense euphoria, or "high," and has a high potential for illicit abuse. Methamphetamine is a man-made drug concocted from chemicals such as lighter fluid and drain cleaner into a fine, crystallized powder which is smoked, snorted or chewed. Meth's toxic make-up is physically damaging and causes several side effects once ingested, some with permanent and potentially fatal results.
Brain Damage
Crystal meth interrupts the areas of the brain responsible for decision-making, memory and pleasure. Repeated use of the drug can alter the brain's normal chemical balance and destroy brain cells, causing permanent brain damage. The University of Los Angeles (UCLA) conducted a 2004 brain imaging study of chronic methamphetamine users and found that 10 percent of brain tissue in the areas of memory, emotion and learning were destroyed. Progressively, meth users can also experience paranoia, hallucinations and psychosis.
Anorexia
Crystal meth is a stimulant that increases wakefulness and energy levels by allowing the brain to release high levels of the chemical dopamine. Metabolism speeds up to meet the body's demand for increased energy. Though the body is using energy stores quickly, crystal meth alternately suppresses appetite and a methamphetamine user may suffer from anorexia resulting in sometimes extreme weight loss.
Tooth Decay
Severe tooth decay can result from crystal meth use. The American Dental Association notes that a specific pattern of decay on the smooth frontal surfaces of the teeth is seen in meth users, a term called "meth mouth." The high acid levels in methamphetamine, combined with poor oral hygiene, facilitate tooth decay, which can result in tooth loss and gum disease if left untreated.
Irritability
The stimulant effects of crystal methamphetamine decrease the body's ability to sleep, while raising the metabolism rate. Meth users experience increased energy, physical activity and decreased need for sleep while the drug is active in the brain. Once the drug wanes from the system, however, a user can become irritable, have trouble sitting still or settling down, and appear very anxious.
Rapid Pulse
Blood vessels, responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body, become constricted when crystal meth is used. In turn, the heart beats faster in an attempt to supply the body with blood, resulting in a fast, irregular pulse and chest pain, which may ultimately lead to a heart attack or stroke.
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