Why Do People Use Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is a highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Meth is most commonly used as a “club drug,” meaning that it is taken while at nightclubs or parties, however, it can be used by any individual at any time. Methamphetamine, even in small doses, increases wakefulness and physical activity and decreases appetite. Methamphetamine can also cause a rapid heart rate, irregular heartbeat, or increased blood pressure. Despite these short term effects, the main reason why people take meth is for the euphoria that comes from the flood of dopamine in the brain. However, although meth makes the user feel good temporarily, the euphoric "high" from the drug starts and fades quickly, leading the user to use meth several times in a row. Once addiction sets in, the true consequences of using meth begin to show itself.

Methamphetamine users are also at greater risk for HIV and Hepatitis C and B due to the sharing of blood through needle use. While most of the symptoms will be alleviated with the stopping of meth use, some of the changes to the brain are irreversible. According to drugabuse.gov, a recent study even suggests that people who used methamphetamine have an increased the risk of developing Parkinson 's disease. The worst effect of methamphetamine is an overdose, which can lead to stroke, heart attack, organ problems, and