Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system and is similar in structure to amphetamine.
Methamphetamine increases the release and blocks the reabsorption of the neurotransmitter dopamine, resulting in very high concentrations of this chemical in the brain. Methamphetamine’s ability to quickly release dopamine in reward regions of the brain is what produces the intense euphoria, or “rush” that many users feel after snorting, smoking or injecting the drug.
Chronic methamphetamine abuse significantly changes how the brain works, with many negative consequences, including: extreme weight loss, severe dental problems, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, disturbances in mood and violent behavior as well as several psychotic features such as paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations and delusions (for example, the sensation of insects crawling under the skin).
Besides, there is the risk of transmission of HIV and hepatitis B and C as the intoxicating effects of methamphetamine by any route of administration may alter judgment and inhibition, and make users practice hazardous activities, for example, High-risk sexual behaviors.
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