Last updated : December 23, 2024
Methamphetamines have gotten a lot of media attention lately due to the TV show Breaking Bad. Before knowledge of crystal meth became mainstream, though, the drug was already working its way insidiously through many communities. Methamphetamines were originally developed as a stimulant in the early 20th century, but they did not become popular for street use until 1990s, when drug dealers developed new methods of “cooking” meth to make it stronger.
The drug is made through a chemical process that often utilizes over-the-counter cold medicine as a base. Ephedrine, pseudoephedrine and anhydrous ammonia are all key ingredients that can be extracted from cough medicine.
Drug use is prevalent throughout the country, ranging from rural areas in the southwest to urban areas, including predominately white neighborhoods like those in South Milwaukee. This is a drug that knows no racial or class bounds, and it’s a danger to both users and their communities.
How This Drug Works
Crystal meth is sometimes called “speed,” and it’s classified as an “upper.” It produces feelings of euphoria by altering the body’s production of dopamine. The flood of dopamine leads to the user feeling energized and happy. Unfortunately for the user, these effects are temporary and can have far-reaching negative consequences.
Eventually, the body will stop being able to produce dopamine on its own. This makes it impossible for the user to feel pleasure naturally. Additionally, drug use alters neuropathways in the brain, which can affect a user’s mental health in the long term. Essentially, the drug actually rewires the user’s brain in such a way that he or she will never be exactly the same again, even if the drug is no longer used.
The Problems Users Face
Methamphetamine usage manifests itself in many physical and mental symptoms. The drug can also have long-term and damaging effects on the user’s body and mental well-being.
- The body loses its regenerative powers, leading to the appearance of premature aging
- Chronic dry mouth and tooth grinding behaviors lead to substantial tooth decay and oral infections
- Users have increased libido and are prone to reckless sexual behavior
- The user’s immune system is compromised by drug use
- Behavioral changes, including paranoia and irritability, are very common
Aside from the personal troubles caused by metamphetamine use, this drug can also damage communities. Drug deals encourage violent crime and prostitution. Crystal meth can also be physically dangerous to a neighborhood. When it’s cooked at home, the chemicals can be volatile and prone to catching fire or exploding. House and apartment fires caused by methamphetamine labs are a real threat for people living in these communities.
The Importance of Drug Testing
Drug use is a multi-headed opponent that must be dealt with on a legal and medical level. People need help with rehabilitation programs and counseling to aid the transition to a normal lifestyle.
Outside of this, though, one of the most important steps in putting an end to drug use is identifying users. Without drug testing, users can’t get the help they need. They can also pose a serious threat to their own safety and the safety of those around them through inattentiveness. Drug users hurt themselves and the companies they work for, and preventing that trouble before it starts is the main reason why it’s a great idea for organizations to implement mandatory drug testing.
Drug tests encourage users to get clean and stay clean in order to maintain their jobs. It protects the workers from being subjected to potentially dangerous or otherwise harmful coworkers, and it helps businesses choose the most productive employees. If you have not yet implemented a drug testing program for your business, you can contact us for more information on how to get started.
