Signs and Symptoms of Meth Use

There are certain ‘red flags’ associated with Meth use that will be noticeable from the very first time someone tries the drug.  Not every user will display every one of these symptoms; other illicit drugs may also cause similar signs.  Information adapted from National Institute on Drug Abuse

Signs/Symptoms of Early Meth Use

• Euphoric "high" state (excessively happy)
• Paranoia
• Decreased appetite
• Increased physical activity
• Anxiety, shaking hands, nervousness
• Incessant talking
• Rapid eye movement
• Increased body temperature (can rise as high as 108 degrees and cause death)
• Dilated pupils
• Sweating not related to physical activity

Signs/Symptoms of Continued Meth Use the above symptoms, plus:

• Weight loss
• Strong body odor
• Shadows under the eyes
• Dry or itchy skin
• Pale complexion
• Acne/Acne-type sores
• Irritable and moody (mood swings)
• Picking at skin or hair
• Aggressive or violent behavior
• Depression (withdrawal/tolerance effect)
• Severe nail biting
• Nose bleeds, nasal perforations
• Dermatitis around the mouth
• Lack of personal hygiene

Signs/Symptoms of Advanced Meth Use the above symptoms, plus:

• Extreme weight loss
• Hair loss
• Discolored, rotten or missing teeth
• Corneal ulcerations
• Severe mental illness symptoms, similar to schizophrenia (including anger, panic, paranoia, auditory and visual hallucinations, repetitive behavior patterns)

Meth Overdose - A toxic reaction (or overdose) can occur at relatively low levels, 50 milligrams of pure Meth for a non-tolerant user.  Metabolic rates vary from person to person, and the strength of the Meth varies from batch to batch, so there is no way of stating a "safe" level of use.   Because stimulants affect the body's cardiovascular and temperature-regulating systems, physical exertion increases the hazards of Meth use.

Signs/Symptoms of Meth Overdose

• High fever
• Chest pain
• Rapid breathing
• Sudden, dangerous increase in blood pressure
• Profuse sweating
• Chances of heart attack, stroke, or coma Convulsions Tremors
• Confusion
• Dangerous rise in body temperature
• Seeing spots (due to pressure on the nerves of eye)
• Cardiovascular collapse