Methamphetamine (meth) use has spiked in recent years in the United States, and the crisis of meth addiction is a growing public health concern. If you or a loved one is struggling with meth addiction, contact BlueCrest Recovery online or call 888.292.9652 to work on understanding meth addiction and learn more about our meth rehab in New Jersey.
Information About Meth
There are two types of meth based on the chemical composition of the drug itself. Before stringent regulations from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), most methamphetamine in the United States was made in home “laboratories” using ingredients found in over-the-counter cold medications. The drug pseudoephedrine, commonly found in Sudafed tablets, could be synthesized into methamphetamine with just a few chemical reagents.
Often called “shake and bake” meth, this type of methamphetamine was less potent than most meth today. It contained less d-methamphetamine, which produces the majority of the recreational effects, and more l-methamphetamine, which is often associated with side effects such as racing heartbeat and hypertension.
However, since the FDA cracked down on these products, most methamphetamine production began to take place in clandestine labs in Mexico. These labs produce “P2P” meth, often referred to as “super meth” or “biker meth.” This formulation contains a higher concentration of d-methamphetamine, making it more addictive and potent.
Forms of Meth
Meth typically comes in one of two forms. The first is a glass-like crystalline structure, often with a white or yellowish appearance. The crystalline structure of meth is where it gets the names “crystal” and “glass,” as it bears a close resemblance to each of these objects.
The second form of meth is a rough, powdered substance. Meth in this form may have initially had a crystalline structure, but it broke apart into fine granules. Powdered methamphetamine is typically white or yellowish, and it may have a slight sparkle under light.
Unlike drugs such as cocaine, powdered meth is typically not fine but coarse and gritty. In texture, it is closer to kosher salt than baking powder.
Street Names of Meth
One way to help identify if people are using meth is to learn the street names that meth is often called. Common meth street names include:
- Speed
- Tweak
- Crystal
- Clear
- Ice
- Shatter
- Glass
- Gak
All of these terms refer to methamphetamine. Further, there are slang terms that refer to people being under the influence of meth: tweaking, noodle grooving, geeking, and amping are all terms used to refer to being under the effects of methamphetamine.
Understanding Meth Addiction
Meth is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that has an extremely high potential for addiction. There are several different forms of meth, types of meth, and meth street names to familiarize yourself with. Gathering information about meth use can help prevent the catastrophic consequences that this drug can bring.
But understanding meth doesn’t always prevent meth use or addiction. Several different external and internal factors can influence whether someone develops a methamphetamine use disorder, including:
- History of trauma
- Co-occurring mental health disorders
- A family history of addiction
- Peer pressure
- Other substance use disorders, such as opioid use disorder
When a person develops a meth addiction, they are often unable to stop using meth on their own. Thankfully, several evidence-based treatment methods for meth addiction can help people achieve recovery.
Enroll in Meth Addiction Treatment at BlueCrest Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with a meth addiction, contact BlueCrest Recovery online or call 888.292.9652 for more information about meth treatment that can help you achieve a lasting recovery. Our comprehensive treatment program emphasizes quality, evidence-based treatment methods that can drastically change the course of your life and help you break free from addiction once and for all.
