A number of factors can affect the onset of Meth and its effects on the body. The main one being its mode of administration. Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected or taken orally. The most rapid effects are produced by injecting or smoking the drug, while taking it orally delays the effects. One the Meth has been absorbed into the body, its biological effects are the same, regardless of how it was administered. Meth peaks in the body a few minutes after smoking, shortly after injecting and a few hours after taking it orally.
Factors Influencing Meth Onset
For Meth, or any drug to work, it must enter the body and dissolve into a solution that is absorbed by the body and then distributed through it. The factors that influence the rate at which onset begins can include:
- Bioavailability – Meth that is snorted or smoked is well absorbed, and although those methods of taking the drug may reduce the risk of transmission of blood borne diseases, the possibility of complications still exist.
- Form of the Drug – Meth can be bought in several forms such as powder, crystal, rocks and tablets. The crystal form of it is called ‘crystal meth’. The type of meth that the individual takes will affect its onset.
- Administration – As mentioned before, there are different routes of administering Meth. These could be nasally, via IV, ingesting liquid formulations or taking tablets. Each of these affect the onset of effects.
Effects of Meth on the Body
Meth is a potent central nervous system stimulant and a highly addictive drug. When it reaches the brain the effect is the production of dopamine. This produces a rush or a feeling of “high” that the individual is looking for. The short-term effects of meth are:
- Euphoria
- Increased alertness
- Increased physical activity
- Decreased fatigue
- Increased attention
- Decreased appetite
Meth also produces the following short-term effects that, if not treated promptly, can be fatal in the case of an overdose:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Elevated body temperature
- Rapid heartbeat
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Brain hemorrhage
- Lung collapse due to changes in air pressure
- Convulsions
Risk of Addiction
Addiction is the biggest risk of using Meth. An individual can become dependent on Meth quickly and that can cause tolerance. Thus the individual needs to keep taking higher doses to achieve the same effects. Or the individual who has been orally taking meth or snorting it might start to smoke or inject it to feel the effects quicker.
Hired Power provides information and resources for addiction intervention and recovery. If you are struggling to kick a drug or substance use habit, call us at 1-800-910-9299. Let us help you create a solid foundation for lasting recovery.
