Methamphetamine

Substance

Methamphetamine (N-methylamphetamine) is a synthetic amphetamine derivative. Like amphetamine, methamphetamine causes the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, resulting in euphoria and increased energy. Because methamphetamine enters the brain more quickly than amphetamine and its stimulating effect is stronger and longer lasting, it produces a more intense and longer-lasting high (kick) and therefore has a higher potential for addiction than amphetamine. [1] [2] [3] [4]

group

Stimulants

Forms of appearance

Pills (Yaba, Thaipille, Pervitin®) or crystalline powder (Crystal, Ice, Pico).

Consumption patterns

Methamphetamine is swallowed, snorted, smoked, injected (slamming) or administered rectally.

Be careful when mixing substances!

Alcohol
MDMA (Ecstasy)
Cocaine
Amphetamine (Speed)
Amphetamine, 2C-B, Cannabis, GHB, Ketamine, MAO inhibitors, Opioids

Substance groups

dosage

5 to max. 50 mg, depending on purity and method of administration.

[1] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/add.14708

Effect

Norepinephrine and dopamine are released simultaneously, resulting in a pronounced subjective increase in performance, heightened self-esteem, euphoria, disinhibition, and increased libido; methamphetamine is therefore also used as a sex drug. Body temperature rises, pulse and respiration accelerate, and blood pressure increases. Hunger, the need for sleep, and pain are suppressed. Increased risk-taking, aggression, and propensity for violence, extreme nervousness, and an increased urge to talk (verbal enthralling) are further effects. Methamphetamine is metabolized slowly by the body.

Onset of action

Snuffed after approximately 10–20 minutes, swallowed after 30–120 minutes, smoked and injected within a few seconds.

Duration of effect

Depending on the application method, the effect lasts 3–12 hours. At high doses, the effect can last longer than 24 hours.

Aftereffects

up to 70 hours

Risks and side effects

Short-term side effects include jaw muscle tension, dry mouth, elevated body temperature, severe dehydration, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, tremors, irritability, and aggressive to violent behavior (especially when combined with alcohol and in high doses). Psychiatric symptoms such as agitation, suicidal thoughts, or psychotic reactions are common in individuals with methamphetamine overdoses. Deaths related to methamphetamine overdoses are usually due to pulmonary edema, cerebral hemorrhage, cardiac arrhythmias, acute heart failure, or high fever.

Long-term risks

Methamphetamine is a highly debilitating substance with a very high potential for addiction, causing both psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms. Pronounced lows, aggression, depression, and intense cravings characterize the period of regular use. It can lead to constant restlessness, sleep and circulatory problems, paranoia, and even amphetamine psychosis. Suicidal thoughts are also common. Furthermore, weight loss, skin inflammation ("speed bumps"), tooth loss, kidney and lung damage, stomach problems, and epileptic seizures are possible. In women, menstrual cycles can be disrupted. Snorting it damages the nasal mucous membranes and septum, while swallowing it damages the stomach lining; smoking it damages the lungs and increases the risk of cancer. Chronic use increases the risk of cerebral hemorrhages and strokes with sudden paralysis and damages the heart.

Safer Use

Use a low dose and do not redose; methamphetamine is a highly potent substance! Observe safer sex rules.
Eat enough before and after consuming to prevent weight loss, and make sure you get enough vitamins C and D as well as minerals (iron, calcium, and magnesium). Keep in mind that a full stomach can delay absorption when swallowing.
The comedown after using methamphetamine can be very severe, so be sure to take breaks; you should wait at least four weeks before using again. People with psychiatric conditions (especially depression, a history of suicide attempts, psychosis), people with high blood pressure, liver and kidney disease, epilepsy, diabetes, and pregnant women should not use methamphetamine.
Plan enough time for consumption and recovery afterward. Methamphetamine is also used to enhance sexual performance and can be a convenient and quick way to do so. Try to consider your sexual needs while sober: How important is performance to you? What kind of sense of belonging do you crave? What kind of sexuality do you hope for? Does any of this make sense to you? Sexuality professionals are happy to advise you on this.