Methamphetamine (meth) is a stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. While the short-term effects of meth use can be intense, the long-term effects are even more concerning. Prolonged use of meth can cause severe damage to the brain and body, leading to permanent physical, emotional, and mental effects. These problems occur because meth can cause structural changes in the brain. However, it’s important to know that it’s never too late to quit. 

Here in Pennsylvania, meth use is on the rise. NMS Labs is a private company located in Montgomery County, and they are responsible for analyzing drug samples from crime scenes, drug seizures, and drug overdoses across the country. Because of this, they often pick up on changes happening in the drug supply. NMS Labs found that meth overdoses in Pennsylvania increased once the COVID pandemic began, seeing roughly 60-100 meth deaths per month. 

So where is the meth coming from? It’s believed that the majority of methamphetamine is coming from south of the border. “Super labs” in Mexico are largely responsible for the meth supply here in the U.S., and it’s stronger than ever before. Due to this, today’s meth is extremely potent, addictive, and dangerous, putting people at risk for overdose and death. And, unlike opioid overdoses that can be reversed with Narcan, no such medication exists for meth. 

If you or a loved one is using meth, it’s important to understand the long-term effects that can happen to the brain and body. Seeking support today can help turn things around and allow you to live a healthy, productive, and meaningful life. 

Meth and Its Impact on the Brain 

Methamphetamine affects the brain’s chemistry, particularly its dopamine system. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of pleasure, motivation, and reward. When you take meth, it causes a massive surge in dopamine, which contributes to its highly addictive nature. Your mind and body feel great, and naturally, the brain wants you to feel this way again. However, over time, this excessive release leads to:

• Dopamine system damage. Long-term meth use damages the brain’s dopamine receptors, making it difficult for users to experience pleasure from normal activities. This condition, known as anhedonia, can persist for a long time after stopping meth use, leading to depression. It takes time for the brain to recover and start producing dopamine on its own again. 
• Cognitive impairments. Chronic methamphetamine use can result in significant impairments, including memory loss, decreased attention span, and difficulty in decision-making. These cognitive impairments can make it difficult to function in everyday life, particularly when it comes to work and relationships. 
• Psychiatric disorders. Long-term meth use is associated with a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, and paranoia. It’s also possible for users to experience meth-induced psychosis, characterized by delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations. These issues may require long-term treatment. 
• Brain structure changes. Research has shown that using meth for an extended period of time can cause structural changes in the brain. These changes include reduced gray matter in areas responsible for memory, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
• Increased risk of stroke. Methamphetamine use also increases the risk of stroke due to the substance’s effects on blood pressure and blood vessels in the brain. A stroke can cause permanent brain damage. 

Meth and Its Impact on the Body 

In addition to the devastating effects on the brain, methamphetamine use can also impact the body. The physical toll of meth use can be seen in both the short-term and long-term, with some effects being irreversible. 

• Cardiovascular problems. Because meth is a stimulant, it significantly increases heart rate and blood pressure. Long-term use can lead to cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy (a condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened). These conditions can be life-threatening and persist even after stopping meth use. 
• Dental damage (meth mouth). One of the most visible signs of chronic meth use is meth mouth, characterized by severe tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. This happens because meth causes dry mouth, which reduces saliva production and creates an acidic environment that fosters tooth decay. Additionally, meth users often grind their teeth and neglect their oral hygiene, further increasing damage. 
• Skin problems. Chronic meth users often suffer from skin issues, including sores, infections, and scarring. Sometimes, people feel like they have bugs crawling on their skin, causing them to pick at their skin. 
• Weight loss and malnutrition. Methamphetamine suppresses appetite, leading to significant weight loss and malnutrition over time. Chronic users are often severely underweight, and this can cause a weakened immune system as well. 
• Organ damage. Long-term meth use can damage various organs, including the liver and kidneys. The toxic chemicals in meth are responsible for this damage. 
• Weakened immune system. Meth use weakens the immune system, making users susceptible to infections and illnesses. Weakened immunity can exacerbate existing health conditions and make recovery more difficult. 

Meth Use Disorder Treatment in Lehigh Valley PA

Recovery Cove is located in Easton PA, and we have a strong understanding of the meth problem in our state. While meth can be a difficult substance to quit, it is possible with the right support. The first step is detoxification, which is the process of removing drugs and toxins from the body while managing the acute symptoms of withdrawal. Meth withdrawal is not typically life-threatening, but it can be extremely uncomfortable and distressing. For this reason, it’s best to detox under medical supervision. 

Once the detox process is complete, you can start a treatment program that addresses the mental and emotional aspects of your addiction. Recovery Cove has intensive, structured outpatient programs that include partial hospitalization, IOP, and OP. Our programs include evidence-based treatments like CBT and DBT, holistic treatments like meditation and yoga, family therapy, and peer support. We will work with you every step of the way to ensure you have the right support by your side! Contact Recovery Cove at 484-549-COVE to learn more about treating a meth use disorder.