Because they have similar properties and effects, people may not know the difference between the two illicit drugs: speed and meth. Here we explain the different trails they carve, the dangers they conceal, and the haunting potential of addiction lurking in their shadows.
In addiction recovery, caution and compassion are the hallmarks of lasting recovery. But before we get there, we must be informed. Below we will look at the difference between speed and meth.
Speed vs. Meth
Speed and meth are both stimulants. This means they enhance neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. The result is energy and focus. However, their chemical compositions, effects, and risks significantly differ.
Speed: A Rollercoaster of Energy
Aspects of Speed:
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- Amphetamine-Based: Speed primarily consists of amphetamine or dextroamphetamine, stimulating the central nervous system.
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- Quick Onset: The effects of speed are rapid, providing an immediate surge of energy and heightened alertness.
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- Routes of Administration: Users may ingest, snort, or inject speed, experiencing varying impact intensities.
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- Short-Lived High: The euphoria and increased energy levels associated with speed are relatively short-lived, lasting a few hours at most.
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- Side Effects: Speed can cause increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, restlessness, and reduced appetite.
The Dangers of Speed:
- Cardiovascular Risks: Speed can strain the heart, leading to cardiovascular problems and even heart attacks.
- Mental Health Impact: Prolonged use of speed may exacerbate anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis.
- Addiction Potential: As tolerance builds, users may escalate their dosage, increasing the risk of addiction and dependence.
Addiction to Speed: Addiction to speed is characterized by compulsive use despite negative consequences. It can lead to severe physical, psychological, and social repercussions.
Meth: A Darker Abyss
Aspects of Meth:
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- Methamphetamine: Meth is a potent and more intense form of amphetamine that profoundly impacts the brain and body.
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- Long-Lasting Effects: The high from meth can last several hours or even days, drawing users deeper into its grasp.
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- Crystal Form: Meth is often found in crystalline structures, leading to its nickname, “crystal meth.”
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- Harsh Production: Meth is notoriously produced through dangerous and illegal methods, contributing to the hazardous nature of its consumption.
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- Intensified Risks: Meth poses significantly amplified physical and mental health risks compared to speed.
The Dangers of Meth:
- Neurological Damage: Meth can cause irreversible damage to brain cells and neurotransmitter systems, leading to cognitive impairments.
- Tooth Decay: “Meth mouth” is a common side effect due to poor oral hygiene and the acidic nature of the drug.
- Skin Sores: Users may experience skin picking and sores due to hallucination-induced sensations.
Addiction to Meth: Meth addiction is a formidable adversary; the cravings are often so intense just about everything else in life loses its luster. People with a meth addiction often are single-minded in accessing the drug. The effects of meth can be devastating, taking a toll on physical appearance, mental health, and relationships.
The visual difference between Speed and Meth
Speed: A Flash of Energy and Restlessness
Speed is often available in the form of small white or colored tablets. Users may exhibit heightened alertness and an intense desire for activity. You may notice dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and rapid speech. As people come down from the high, they may sweat and fidget as the drug’s effects gradually subside. While high on speed, a person may appear wired, with a sense of urgency in their movements and speech.
Meth: The Crystalline Facade of Illusion
Methamphetamine is usually a crystal resembling tiny shards or rocks. This is why it’s called crystal meth. Over time, users become gaunt and emaciated. Hallucination-induced skin picking and sores may leave visible marks on the skin, along with dental issues infamously known as “meth mouth.”
Signs of meth use include dilated pupils, twitching, and a hollow, haunted look in the eyes.
The Power of Compassion: A Beacon of Hope
Both speed and meth carry substantial risks and must not be underestimated. Addiction to either stimulant can be a harrowing journey, including intense physical and emotional distress.
The face of addiction may wear many masks, concealing pain, vulnerability, and a yearning for connection. Compassion plays a vital role in uncovering the deeper issues of addiction and fostering an environment of support and understanding for those seeking a way out of addiction’s clutches.
The Path to Recovery at Saddleback Recovery
While the roads of speed and meth may lead to dark places, the path to recovery is possible. The first step is to talk to someone at an accredited drug detox. Saddleback Recovery in Santa Ana California stands out as a program that walks with its clients from the first call to the final stages of inpatient care.
If you want to talk to an addiction specialist about what detox from speed or meth may look like, call our team today. We can break down the initial stages of detox and lay out a plan for further treatment and lasting recovery. Call today.
