The Risks and Consequences of Methamphetamine Abuse

1. Introduction

Methamphetamine is a potent central nervous system stimulant that has been used extensively for the treatment of various disorders and as a illegal recreational drug. The abuse of methamphetamine has become a serious global problem due to its high potential for abuse and the associated risks of health complications. Nursing and other healthcare professionals, through their provision of healthcare services, are in a position to play a significant role in the prevention of methamphetamine misuse.

2. Methamphetamine as a stimulant

Methamphetamine is a synthetic catecholamine with potent amphetamine-like properties. It is typically used in the form of a white, odorless, bitter-tasting powder that can be easily dissolved in water or alcohol. It can also be found in pill form or as a black, sticky substance known as “crank” or “crystal meth” (NIDA, 2018). Methamphetamine stimulates the release of catecholamines, including dopamine and norepinephrine, from nerve endings in the brain and produces feelings of euphoria, alertness, increased energy and pleasure (NIDA, 2018). These effects are similar to those produced by other stimulant drugs such as cocaine and amphetamine.

3. Methamphetamine abuse and addiction

The abuse of methamphetamine can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Methamphetamine abusers often exhibit violent and aggressive behavior, paranoia, delusions and hallucinations (NIDA, 2018). Long-term methamphetamine abuse can result in severe dental problems, weight loss, anxiety and depression. In addition, methamphetamine use can lead to stroke and heart damage due to the increased blood pressure and heart rate associated with the drug (NIDA, 2018).

4. The pharmacology of methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P4502D6 (CYP2D6) to l-methamphetamine and phenylacetone (NIDA, 2018). l-methamphetamine is further metabolized to amphetamine while phenylacetone is conjugated with glucuronic acid to form phenylglucuronide (NIDA, 2018). Methamphetamine is primarily eliminated in the urine as amphetamine while phenylglucuronide is eliminated in the feces (NIDA, 2018).

5. The risk of health complications associated with methamphetamine use

The use of methamphetamine is associated with a number of serious health risks including stroke, heart damage, kidney damage and gastrointestinal problems (NIDA, 2018). In addition, methamphetamine use can lead to psychotic symptoms such as paranoia and delusions as well as aggressive behavior (NIDA, 2018). These effects can last for days or weeks after stopping methamphetamine use and may lead to long-term health complications.

6. Prevention of methamphetamine abuse and addiction

There are a number of measures that can be taken to prevent the abuse of methamphetamine including public education campaigns about the risks associated with the drug, early identification and intervention programs for at-risk individuals and effective treatment programs for those who are addicted (NIDA, 2018). Healthcare professionals play an important role in the prevention of methamphetamine abuse by providing education about the risks associated with the drug and by identifying and referring at-risk individuals to treatment programs.

7. Conclusion

Methamphetamine is a potent central nervous system stimulant with a high

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