The use of meth in the United States is a growing concern.
Movies and television often glamorize meth addiction and even attempt to portray how the drug is made. For those curious about how meth is made, it’s important to remember that this process is illegal and is usually performed within criminal organizations. The distribution of methamphetamine is also illegal. Meth is an extremely addictive and harmful drug.
At Banyan Stuart, we offer methamphetamine detox treatment to help those looking to begin their journey to sobriety.
Why Is Meth Dangerous?
There are a number of reasons that indicate the intense risk associated with using meth.
The dangers of meth use include:
- Respiratory damage like difficulty breathing
- Violent tremors and uncontrollable twitching
- Damage to blood vessels in the brain, which can cause a stroke
- “Meth mouth,” or severe damage to the teeth and gums
- Inability to perform sexually after long-term use
- Destruction of interpersonal relationships
- Legal repercussions, either from possession or other offenses
- Violent mood swings that can range from manic euphoria to debilitating depression
Of all the well-known dangers of meth abuse, one of its most damaging properties is its high likelihood of addiction. It is what traps people, who are in the current of abuse, for years to come. This can happen even if the person has only used the drug one time.
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Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have as you consider whether treatment at Banyan is right for you or your loved one.
Why Is Meth So Addictive?
Meth is known to encourage the production of dopamine in the user’s brain. This is the chemical that is responsible for producing feelings of happiness and positivity in people. That means that although there is a significant amount of damage being done to the user’s mind and body, they still feel like they are being rewarded for using it. There is also flexibility in how a person can ingest the drug. A user can elect to take it as a pill, inject it, snort it through their nose, or smoke it.
No matter the method of consumption, meth use in any form is an illegal and extremely dangerous habit that can hold lifelong consequences. Sadly, this does not always sway people from falling victim to its dangers, with some people even feeling inclined to make it themselves.
What Are the Ingredients of Crystal Meth?
Individuals addicted to meth and attempting to make and possibly sell it can easily find different recipes showing how to make meth. Crystal meth can be made with products that can be found in any grocery store. Certain ingredients, like ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, have been further regulated to prevent people from making meth.
The ingredients used to make meth are hazardous when ingested on their own and can cause severe health effects on the mind and body when mixed.
Some of these ingredients include:
- Anhydrous ammonia
- Ephedrine
- Toluene
- Pseudoephedrine
- Hydrochloric acid (HCL)
- Lithium
- Lye (sodium hydroxide)
- Phosphorus
- Acetone
Each of these ingredients can have a hazardous effect on a person’s body. They can lead to heart problems, respiratory issues, problems in the brain and spinal cord, poisoning, and even death.
The continuous use of meth can lead to addiction and long-term health issues in the future. To prevent this, individuals can seek Florida addiction treatment at our rehab center in Stuart. Programs like our intensive inpatient program help addicts learn more about their addiction and teach them the necessary tools to recover.
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How Is Crystal Meth Made?
Meth is usually made in illegal labs by mixing different forms of stimulant drugs and other chemicals. Meth is mixed with these additional substances in order to increase its potency, making it extremely harmful to users. It’s heated up or “cooked” with these other ingredients, like cold medicines, to create its base. Battery acid, cleaners, fuels, and antifreeze are also often cooked together. The products are highly flammable and can result in explosions and fires.1 Those who make meth are often users themselves. They suffer not only from meth addiction but from the dangers of creating this drug as well.
Fortunately, restrictions placed on certain ingredients needed to make crystal meth have led to an enormous decline in its production. Between 2010 to 2017, the number of lab incidents went from 15,256 to 3,036.1 The amount of meth that is made has since declined. This is a crucial step in the right direction, especially when considering the intense addictiveness of this substance.
Many users don’t know how meth is made and therefore don’t realize the harmful ingredients it contains. These ingredients are combined to form a highly addictive and dangerous substance that can cause horrible and sometimes life-threatening effects.
If you or a loved one need help to recover from drug or substance abuse, call the Stuart, Florida, Banyan Treatment Center now at 888-280-4763.
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