The effects of meth addiction are categorized two ways — short-term and long-term. Short-term effects are immediate whereas long-term evolve over a lengthier period of time.

To better understand the effects, we have divided the content into two parts in order to define each one, as well as give some examples of each type.First of all, understand that meth is a very powerful stimulant and even in small doses it usually results in an increase in physical activity, a decrease in appetite, and periods of sleeplessness. When the individual injects or smokes the substance, there is a brief, intense sensation that occurs which is referred to as a rush.

On the other hand, when it is orally ingested or snorted, no rush is apparent, however, the pleasurable effects that result oftentimes last for up to half a day. No matter how meth is ingested, the physiological affects on the brain are the same, namely that there is a release of a neurotransmitter called dopamine into that area of the brain that regulates the sensation of pleasure.

The long-term effects often equate to much more serious damage both physically and psychologically. The primary effect is obviously the addiction that results from a chronic abuse of the substance. Then one endures ongoing changes to functions and molecular structure of the brain. Anxiety, confusion, insomnia, and violent behavior can all result from the addiction to meth.

From a psychological perspective, chronic drug abuse creates intense paranoia, hallucinations, psychotic behavior, and out-of-control rages that are coupled with behavior that is categorized as extremely violent in nature. Eventually, an drug addiction and dependency psychosis results, and this is often accompanied by chronic weight loss. Ultimately, the individual can succumb to a stroke or cardiac arrest and die.