Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a potent stimulant drug with a high potential for addiction. This drug rapidly affects the central nervous system, leading to a surge of dopamine in the brain. This surge creates an intense euphoric “rush” that users often crave, but the effect is short-lived, typically ending quickly. This rapid cycle of intense pleasure followed by a crash is a key factor in meth’s highly addictive nature, driving individuals to repeated use in pursuit of that initial high. Studies have shown the severity of this issue, with a significant portion of individuals who use methamphetamine developing a substance use disorder.
The term used by medical professionals to describe problematic methamphetamine use is stimulant use disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), a crucial resource for diagnosing mental health and substance use conditions, defines stimulant use disorder as a pattern of stimulant drug use that causes significant problems or distress in a person’s life. This diagnosis is made when an individual exhibits at least two of the following symptoms within a 12-month period:
- Using methamphetamine in larger doses or for longer periods than initially intended.
- Persistent unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control methamphetamine use.
- Spending a significant amount of time seeking, using, or recovering from the effects of methamphetamine.
- Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use methamphetamine.
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to methamphetamine use.
- Continuing to use methamphetamine despite experiencing ongoing social or relationship problems caused or worsened by drug use.
- Giving up or reducing participation in important activities because of methamphetamine use.
- Repeated methamphetamine use in situations where it is physically dangerous.
- Continued methamphetamine use despite awareness of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the drug.
- Developing tolerance, requiring increased amounts of methamphetamine to achieve the desired effect.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop or reduce methamphetamine use.
The severity of a stimulant use disorder is categorized based on the number of symptoms present. A mild disorder is diagnosed with two to three symptoms, a moderate disorder with four to five symptoms, and a severe disorder when six or more of these symptoms are evident. Severe stimulant use disorder is often referred to as addiction, highlighting the profound impact meth can have on an individual’s life and well-being.
