Get help today 888-287-0471 or sign up for 24/7 text support.
American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory

Methamphetamine Addiction

Methamphetamine is an addictive stimulant drug. Although it has limited legitimate uses for treating obesity and narcolepsy, it is more often abused as a recreational drug. This drug has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Users and family members should be aware of methamphetamine addiction symptoms, so they can spot these issues when they occur and get help promptly.
projectknow-shutter307944914-methIn 2005, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) released their crystal meth statistics. Their survey noted that 10.4 million people 12 years old and over have tried crystal meth at least once in their lifetime. With use on the rise, anyone taking this drug should be aware of what to expect during methamphetamine detox and withdrawal. If you are, or someone you love is, showing methamphetamine addiction symptoms, please call to discuss treatment options.

Methamphetamine Addiction Symptoms

Meth produces a highly pleasurable feeling in the body, followed by feelings of depression and sadness when the drug wears off. Users will seek more of the drug to get back to the pleasurable state. This cycle quickly makes users dependent on the drug. Users also develop a tolerance to the drug, meaning that it takes more of the drug to get the same high. Methamphetamine addiction symptoms may include any or all of the following:

  • Obsessive, fidgety behavior
  • Constant, rambling conversation
  • Frequent sweating
  • Meth mouth (tooth decay, missing or broken teeth)
  • Frequent sores and skin lesions that take a long time to heal
  • Little or no appetite; weight loss
  • A decline in grades or job performance
  • Lack of sleep for up to a week at a time
  • Frequent absence from work or school
  • Dangerous sexual behavior

Although many of these symptoms may also signify another kind of drug abuse or underlying mental illness, do not wait to express concern if a loved one is showing any of these signs.

Symptoms of Methamphetamine Withdrawal

The primary step in methamphetamine addiction treatment is detoxification, the process by which the body rids itself of the drug. Because addicts are physically dependent on the drug, the body experiences withdrawal symptoms. Methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms are often both physical and psychological in nature. Users going through meth detox can expect any or all of the following symptoms:

  • Intense cravings
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Sleeplessness
  • Excessive sleeping
  • Suicidal ideation
  • Depression
  • Increased appetite

These symptoms, although unpleasant, are not usually life-threatening and can be managed under the supervision of a doctor. Withdrawal symptoms generally begin within 24 to 48 hours of the last use of the drug. Symptoms may last for days or weeks, depending on the length and amount of use. Because of the sometimes intense nature of withdrawal symptoms, many addicts choose to enter a methamphetamine addiction treatment program where they can have support and medical supervision during the detox and withdrawal process.

Treatments for Meth Addiction

“Currently, the most effective methamphetamine addiction treatment is a comprehensive program of cognitive behavioral interventions.”Currently, the most effective methamphetamine addiction treatment is a comprehensive program of cognitive behavioral interventions. A combination of individual counseling, 12-step support, family education, behavioral therapy, and encouragement of non-drug-related activities is most often employed at methamphetamine withdrawal treatment facilities. Addicts have become used to coping with their problems by using the drug. A comprehensive plan of treatment will give addicts healthy coping mechanisms to replace the previously learned ones. Proper treatment can assist the addict with ways to return to a healthy lifestyle after experiencing methamphetamine addiction symptoms. If you or a loved one would like to explore treatment options, please call today.

Residential detox centers are an effective start for addiction recovery, but they must be followed with a strong rehabilitation program. With a combination of rest, daily exercise, vitamins, therapy, and healthy nutrition, addicts are taught to replace bad habits with good ones while in rehab. Users can share and learn from others with similar experiences. It is essential that users have a comprehensive plan to address the mental and physical effects of methamphetamine addiction. To explore methamphetamine detox and rehab programs, call today.

Importance of Long-Term Support

Methamphetamine detox is only the first step in treating methamphetamine addiction symptoms. Without regular, long-term treatment, many users will return to abusing the drug. Treatment may be provided on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Each person is different, and having a treatment plan tailored to his or her specific situation increases the chances of a good outcome. Support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous can be helpful to some people going through a meth addiction, and supportive family and friends increase the chances of a successful recovery.

According to the SAMHSA, the rate of substance abuse treatment admissions for primary methamphetamine/amphetamine abuse increased from 13 admissions per 100,000 in 1993 to 56 admissions per 100,000 in 2003, for patients ages 12 or older. There are many treatment options available that can be tailored to your specific situation. Methamphetamine addiction treatment is not something to try to do alone. Medically supervised treatment drastically increases the chances of successfully quitting the drug. For help with exploring options for treatment, please call .

Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment

Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of a substance use disorder. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.

Was this page helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.

Your feedback is important to us and will be used to improve the quality of our articles. Please do not use this form as a contact form or input personal information. If you are in crisis or need immediate help dial 9-1-1. Or if you are interested in entering treatment and want to know more, call us at 888-287-0471

Helpline Information
for immediate assistance.

(0/100)

While we are unable to respond to your feedback directly, we'll use this information to improve our content. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and need help, call us at 888-287-0471

Helpline Information
for immediate assistance.