Willcox Meth Task Force

Meth is addictive and causes brain damage from its first use.  There are many side effects however that meth causes to the entire body.

Brain

Meth causes a large release of dopamine into the brain.  Dopamine is a natural neurotransmitter in the brain.  High levels of dopamine will cause damage to the nerve endings of the brain.  The large release of dopamine also causes its chronic depletion.  Low levels of dopamine cause symptoms and the appearance of Parkinson's disease.

Heart

Meth causes the heart to beat extremely fast, which is called tachycardia.  This can cause a heart attack, enlarged heart, stroke, and ultimately death.  Any damage caused to the heart, from using meth, is not reversible even once meth use is stopped.

Lungs

The lungs are also sensitive to the effects of meth.  People will breath faster, medically termed tachypnea, when using meth.  This can cause chronic lung damage, severe shortness of breath, and possibly death.

To learn more about the physical side effects of meth, visit our FAQ page.

Skin

People who use meth will release their toxins through their skin.  These toxins can be released up to six months after the last use of meth.  These toxins will arise as an abscess which typically has MRSA bacteria.  Meth users call these abscesses "spider bites."

"Spider Bite"

Meth users will also pick at their skin causing ulcers.  Meth makes them believe that bugs are crawling under their skin.  Users call these "crank bugs" but, of course, the bugs do not exist. 

Teeth

Meth causes severe rotting of teeth.  This condition is caused "Meth Mouth."  The underlying gums and jaw bone will also deteriorate.  This makes it difficult for dentists to repair as the underlying bone structure can not support dentures.