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Methamphetamine, commonly known as “speed”, is a very addictive stimulant drug that affects the dopamine transmitters in the brain. It is related chemically to amphetamine but, methamphetamine is much more powerful, the effects are longer lasting and it is much more dangerous to the central nervous system of the body.

Methamphetamine is classified as a “Schedule II stimulant”, that means that it has a very high potential for being abused and is only legally available by a prescription that is not refillable. It is, however, often made in small, illegal laboratories often in residential neighborhoods where its production endangers the people in the labs, the neighbors, and the environment. The street names for methamphetamine include "speed," "meth," and "chalk." Methamphetamine hydrochloride consists of clear chunky crystals that resemble ice and is usually inhaled by smoking. This form of the drug is known as "ice," "crystal," or "glass".

Methamphetamine can be taken orally, chopped and snorted through the nose, injected or smoking. Abusers usually become addicted very quickly. Their tolerance builds rapidly causing the need for higher and more frequent doses. The most effective treatments for methamphetamine rehabilitation will include a variety of behavioral therapies and contingency management interventions. The physical part of the addiction is not nearly as strong as the mental dependency and the majority of efforts must be made in this area.

A qualified drug treatment center that specializes in methamphetamine rehab will be most effective. Long term treatment is usually most advisable as shorter term programs barely allow the user enough time to rid the body of the drug and deal with the emotions of being in rehab such as fear, anger (at the loved ones that may have “insisted” that the user get help) and the depression that is a physical side effect of discontinuing use of the drug. Part of the drug addiction treatment for a meth addiction may include the use of prescription anti-depressants due to the decreased ability of the brain to properly handle its dopamine and serotonin receptors from damage caused by regular meth usage.

The use of methamphetamines is so damaging to the body and brain of the user that proper drug addiction treatment from a qualified rehabilitation center is absolutely critical to the health and survival of the user. This drug has a very high potential for “burn out” because of the damage that is done to the body (primarily cardiac damage) and the brain. Regular users will find their mental capacity diminished and have a harder time completing mental tasks and learning new information.

A good methamphetamine rehab will help the addict develop new strategies for dealing with stress and find new ways to find joy in life without depending on substances. Qualified rehab centers will deal with the “whole person” rather than just the symptoms of drug abuse. Family members and loved ones will be needed to support the addict in order for a complete recovery. Family members should also attend drug addiction education courses and possibly join a support group for family members dealing with addicts to strengthen themselves and make them more capable of helping their loved one make and keep the commitment to live a clean, drug-free life.

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