Methamphetamine
By: Timmy Hughes and Ashna Kumar
What is Methamphetamine?
How is Methamphetamine used?
How does Methamphetamine affect the brain?
Meth affects the brain by causing a release of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain which causes pleasure. When the brain loses dopamine, people can get depression. Regular use of meth causes chemical and molecular changes. It causes thinking and movement problems that are long term. meth can destroy nerve cells that produce dopamine and another neurotransmitter called serotonin.
What are some other effects of Methamphetamine?
Feeling very awake and active
Fast heart rate and irregular heartbeat
Higher blood pressure
- Higher body temperature
Long term effects
Anxiety and confusion
Problems sleeping
Mood swings
Violent behavior
Psychosis (hearing, seeing, or feeling things that are not there)
Skin sores caused by scratching
Severe weight loss
Severe dental problems, known as “meth mouth”
Problems with thinking, emotion, and memory
Can you get addicted to Methamphetamine?
Yes, you can get addicted to Meth. Meth causes tolerance, after people use it for a while, they need to take more meth to get the same high feeling.
Can you die from the use of Meth?
How many teens abuse Methamphetamine?
What should you do if someone needs help?
If someone needs help, you should call: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (they don’t just talk about suicide, they also talk about
If you need information on treatment and where you can find it, you can call:
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator at 1-800-662-HELP or visit www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.