What is Methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine, often known as “meth,” is a potent and highly addictive central nervous system stimulant that has gained notoriety for its devastating effects on individuals and communities. Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug that affects the brain’s dopamine neurotransmitter system, resulting in increased energy, euphoria, and intense focus. Methamphetamine can be found in various forms, including a crystalline powder or chunks resembling glass fragments.
What are the effects/side effects?
Methamphetamine’s effects are intense and often lead to a false sense of energy and well-being, followed by a devastating crash. The drug affects the user’s psychological and physical health, causing a range of immediate and long-term consequences.
Short-term effects include:
Euphoria: Methamphetamine induces intense feelings of pleasure and euphoria, often leading to increased sociability and talkativeness.
Increased Energy: Users experience a significant surge in energy, leading to heightened physical activity and decreased need for sleep.
Improved Focus: Methamphetamine can enhance concentration and alertness, which is why it has been historically used in situations requiring sustained wakefulness.
Appetite Suppression: Similar to cocaine, methamphetamine can lead to a decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss.
Dilated Pupils: Methamphetamine use can cause dilated pupils, affecting vision and light sensitivity.
Long-term use can cause the following effects:
Addiction: Methamphetamine is highly addictive, and regular use can lead to the rapid development of both physical and psychological dependence.
Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged use can impair memory, cognitive function, and decision-making abilities.
Dental Issues: “Meth mouth” is a term used to describe severe dental problems associated with methamphetamine use, including tooth decay and gum disease.
Skin and Facial Changes: Users may exhibit skin sores, acne, and a gaunt facial appearance due to poor nutrition and hygiene.
Psychiatric Symptoms: Chronic use can lead to anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and violent behaviour.
How does it appear?
Identifying a person using methamphetamine may involve observing physical and behavioural indicators, these include:
Agitation: Users might appear restless, anxious, and agitated.
Erratic Behaviour: Methamphetamine use can lead to impulsive actions, aggression, and unpredictable behaviour.
Dilated Pupils: Methamphetamine use can cause dilated pupils that appear larger than normal.
Skin Sores and Scratching: Users might have open sores on their skin due to excessive scratching, a result of hallucination-related sensations.
Tooth Decay: Severe dental problems, often visible as damaged or missing teeth, are common among methamphetamine users.
Unusual Sleep Patterns: Users may exhibit extended periods of wakefulness and energy followed by periods of extreme fatigue.
Can you test for it?
Various methods can detect methamphetamine use:
Saliva Tests: Saliva tests can detect recent methamphetamine use, typically from a few hours to several days.
Urine Tests: Urine testing can detect recent use within hours and up to several days.
Hair Tests: Methamphetamine can be detected in hair samples for an extended period, typically 90 – 365 days.
Blood Tests: Blood tests can identify methamphetamine in the bloodstream, typically 1 – 3 days.
Impact in the Workplace
The side effects of methamphetamine can negatively impact an individual’s long-term health affecting other aspects of their life. Substantial evidence suggests a significant association between drug and alcohol abuse (DOA) and increased workplace absenteeism. Roche, Pidd, and Kostadinov (2016) reported an annual loss of approximately 2.5 million workdays due to DOA-related absenteeism, resulting in a substantial financial deficit of $680 million. To address this issue workplaces are encouraged to establish comprehensive DOA policies. Brassets Group are committed to partnering with clients to develop and implement robust and efficient Drug and Alcohol Management strategies including the implementation of the aforementioned testing methods.
Reference:
Roche, A., Pidd, K. and Kostadinov, V. (2016), Alcohol- and drug-related absenteeism: a costly problem. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, 40: 236-238. https://doi.org/10.1111/1753-6405.12414
