Methamphetamine
StimulantsAlso known as: Meth, Crystal, Ice, Speed, Glass, Crank, Tina
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All content is written, edited, and medically reviewed by licensed professionals with expertise in addiction medicine and behavioral health.
Benjamin Zohar
NCACIP
Nationally Certified Advanced Clinical Intervention Professional and recovery advocate in long-term recovery, specializing in intervention services and treatment coordination.
Ezra Zohar, M.S.Ed.
Educational Specialist
Educational Specialist with M.S. in Secondary Education, reviewing educational content focused on addiction awareness and recovery.
Brandon McNally
RN
Registered Nurse with specialized training in addiction medicine and behavioral health nursing.
Last Updated
November 2025
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Call Helpline: (914) 594-5851What is Methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine is a synthetic stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It increases dopamine levels dramatically, producing intense euphoria and increased energy. Crystal meth refers to the crystalline form that can be smoked.
Effects
Intense euphoria, increased energy and alertness, decreased appetite, rapid speech, hyperactivity, increased body temperature, irregular heartbeat, hypersensitivity, paranoia
Risks & Dangers
Severe dental problems (meth mouth), extreme weight loss, severe itching leading to skin sores, brain damage, psychosis, violent behavior, heart problems, stroke, overdose death, severe addiction
Withdrawal Symptoms
Depression, anxiety, fatigue, intense cravings, increased appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation, suicidal thoughts
Addiction Potential
Extremely High - Methamphetamine is highly addictive. Users develop tolerance quickly and experience severe psychological dependence.
Duration
Effects typically last 8-24 hours depending on method of use
Legal Status
Schedule II controlled substance in the US. Illegal to possess, manufacture, or distribute without authorization.
Alcohol Interaction Warning
Mixing Methamphetamine with alcohol can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Combining substances increases the risk of:
- • Respiratory depression and overdose
- • Unpredictable effects and loss of consciousness
- • Increased toxicity to liver and other organs
- • Impaired judgment leading to risky behaviors
Learn more about alcohol use disorder and polysubstance use.
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Published: July 15, 2024 • Last Updated: November 25, 2025
Medically reviewed drug information for educational purposes
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