The United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime estimates that over 12.19 million people inject illicit drugs during 2018. This is 26% of the adult population aged 15-64 worldwide. Add to this number a study in Vancouver Canada showed those shooting meth are 80% more likely to try suicide and these are staggering numbers.
Short-Term Side Effects of Shooting Meth
Suicide is not the only risk associate with shooting meth. 13% of meth users inject because the stimulant reaches the brain faster as it need not pass through the lungs or kidneys. But the effects of shooting meth last only moments. So the person has to inject meth repeatedly to stay euphoric. This increases the risk for overdose and death.
As a central nervous system stimulant; meth increases brain activity, heart rate, respiration, energy levels, and attention. These seem like benefits in the short-term. But over time cravings will take over and normal functioning will cease. Meth users often neglect sleep and food to get the next hit.
Binge-and-Crash Depletes Dopamine
Binge-and-crash refers to shooting meth repeatedly while supplies last. This can last for days and is called a “run”. When the meth addict is in binge-and-crash mode, he is depleting the stores of dopamine in the brain. So when the meth runs out, the addict can no longer feel good and falls into a deep depression. The only way out of the depression is to find more meth.
Long-Term Side Effects of Shooting Meth
While short-term side effects may seem beneficial, eventually they wear on the body causing critical and fatal health problems.
Other side effects include:
- Cognitive Issues
- Collapsed Veins
- Delusions
- Depressive Moods
- Hallucinations
- Itching
- Memory Problems
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Stroke
- Unsafe Sexual Practices
- Violence
Shooting meth also carries increased risk of HIV, Hepatitis, Tuberculosis, and skin infections due to sharing of needles and body fluids.
Added Risks of Contaminants
Methamphetamines are sold as a street drug. Meth is not made to FDA standards and often contain contaminants that can further damage organs. Internal chemical burns, poisoning, and damage to the immune system and nerves are common among meth usage.
Shooting Meth and Parkinson’s Disease
Meth depletes dopamine in the brain and causes neurological damage. Parkinson’s Disease is characterized by loss of coordination of movement, regulated by dopamine. While many issues can cause depletion of dopamine, one study in California showed that patients admitted to hospitals for methamphetamine and amphetamine abuse are at 76% more risk of developing Parkinson’s Disease.
Treatment Centers in South Florida
Don’t risk the long-term effects of shooting meth. Contact Northlake Recovery at (561)-770-6616 for a free consultation. Recovery and sobriety are one phone call away.
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