Definition - What does Methamphetamines mean?
Methamphetamine is a drug that acts on the central nervous system. It is one of several different types of amphetamines.
A powerful and addictive stimulant, the drug has a distinctive crystalline structure and is sometimes referred to as crystal meth. Taking many forms, the drug may be ingested in pill form, smoked, snorted as a powder, or converted to a liquid and injected.
Methamphetamine induces a high or euphoric state by increasing the amount of dopamine delivered to the brain. Because the effects of methamphetamine are short-lived, users often take doses in quick succession and may lose the ability or will to engage in self-care, forgetting to eat or sleep.
Long-term use of methamphetamine results in a series of increasingly harmful side effects including damage to the teeth, mental disturbances including paranoia and hallucinations, loss of appetite, insomnia, and weight loss. Over time the drug alters the way the brain processes dopamine resulting in additional cognitive and emotional impairments.
An overdose of methamphetamine can cause an individual to suffer a stroke, heart attack, or other fatal organ failures.
Methamphetamine is sometimes referred to as crystal meth or meth.
SureHire explains Methamphetamines
Amphetamines, including methamphetamine, are one of the five classes of drugs included in the Department of Transportation's (DOT) 5-panel drug test. These drugs are included in the DOT's mandatory drug testing program for certain transportation-related employees pursuant to Rule 49 CFR Part 40.
Methamphetamines are used in limited circumstances for medical treatments, yet also have a potential for abuse. For this reason, the drugs are included in the schedules prepared pursuant to the U.S. Controlled Substances Act. Injectable forms of methamphetamines are listed as Schedule II drugs while non-injectable forms of the drug are categorized as Schedule III drugs.
Desoxyn is one of the trade names for the prescription form of methamphetamine. This medication is used to treat obesity, narcolepsy, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). An individual taking the medically prescribed form of methamphetamine may still qualify to work in certain DOT-covered safety-sensitive positions if an appropriate medical exemption is obtained. However, such exemptions are usually handled on a case-by-case basis. The availability of an exemption may vary by agency.
