Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug, which is usually produced in illegal laboratories in the form of powder, tablet or crystals. Thus, depending on the form in which the drug is, it can be ingested, inhaled, smoked or injected.
Although it has been used for some years as a stimulant medicine, methamphetamine is currently a substance banned by ANVISA. It should not be confused with amphetamine, which is still used as a medicine, in cases strictly indicated by the doctor, as a stimulant of the nervous system. Understand what amphetamines are and what their effects are.
How is it done?
Methamphetamine is a drug manufactured in the laboratory, being derived from amphetamine and, in clandestine laboratories, can be obtained by manipulating ephedrine, a substance present in cold and flu remedies.
This drug is in the form of a white, crystalline, odorless, bitter-tasting powder that is soluble in liquids and is misused in various ways, inhaled, smoked, ingested or injected. It can also be transformed into methamphetamine hydrochloride, which has a crystallized form, which makes it smokable and with greater potential for addiction.
What are the effects
Amphetamines produce various effects on the body as it potently boosts brain neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline. Immediately after consumption, some of the effects felt include feelings of euphoria, extroversion and energy, intensification of sexuality and inhibition of appetite.
People who use this drug may still have hallucinations and better performance on physical and intellectual tasks.
What are the risks associated with using
The most common effects caused by methamphetamine are increased heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature, causing intense sweating.
At high doses it can cause restlessness, irritability and panic attacks or even cause seizures and lead to death from respiratory failure, infarction or heart failure.
As this drug causes decreased appetite, its prolonged use can cause malnutrition, weight loss and psychological dependence. People who use methamphetamine for an extended period of time, when they stop using it, can suffer a long period of anxiety, irritability, sleep disorders, headaches, dental problems, profound depression, cognitive impairment, tiredness, and an aging appearance. Check the signs that someone is using drugs.