Methamphetamine, known commonly as meth or crystal meth, is a highly dangerous and addictive drug. One of the dangers of meth is that it goes by many different names, comes in a range of homemade variations and can be mixed with other drugs for a more potent, and more life-threatening, high. By knowing the many street names for crystal meth, it may be easier to identify abuse or the formation of addiction and get loved ones the help they need.

Defining Crystal Meth

Crystal meth is one of the most common forms of the drug methamphetamine. Like all amphetamines, crystal meth is a stimulant. It is often used, at least initially, as a club drug. Many users believe that they become instantly addicted, making it one of the most dangerous drugs to even try.

Crystal meth can be consumed in multiple ways. The white powder can be snorted, inhaling it through the nose and directly into the respiratory system. It can also be smoked as well as mixed with liquid and injected directly into the bloodstream.

After taking crystal meth, many users describe feelings of extreme energy and euphoria. They might experience a boost in self confidence, and it is not unusual to feel on top of the world and capable of anything. Of course, these feelings fade, and typically within six to eight hours. Once the rush wears off, the opposite feelings are noticed, causing users to be depressed, uncomfortable and unhappy until they are able to use crystal meth again.

Listing the Common Nicknames for Crystal Meth

Like many illegal drugs, crystal meth goes by many different names. Some of these names are unique to specific cities or states, and others are unique to their suppliers or manufacturers. One of the reasons that crystal meth is so dangerous is because it is often made in small batches, each of which could be slightly different from the next.

Just a few of the countless names for crystal meth across the country include the following:

• Crystal
• Speed
• Tweak
• Crank
• Chalk
• Glass
• Ice
• Hot Ice
• Wash
• Poor Man’s Cocaine
• Quartz
• Tina
• Geep
• Garbage

The Danger of Crystal Meth Combinations

On its own, crystal meth is a devastating, dangerous drug. However, it can be made even worse by combining it with other substances that intensify the high and create greater health risks to users.

Mixing meth and cocaine together is a potent combination known as Shabu or Croak. This creates a powerful rush, but it also increases the likelihood of a fatal overdose.

For those who want to stay awake for productivity reasons, such as driving a truck or riding a motorcycle at night, there is a dangerous combination known as biker’s coffee. This mixture of caffeine and meth is a tremendous stimulant that can cause major cardiac damage.

Recreational crystal meth users have been known to combine crystal meth with ecstasy, crack, alcohol and even rohypnol. In fact, some users combine as many as five stimulants at once in a so-called five-way, a terrible mixture that poses serious risks to the health of users.

Exploring the Side Effects of a Crystal Meth Addiction

Thanks to the widespread use of crystal meth, there may be some individuals who don’t yet understand the side effects that crystal meth abuse and addiction can cause. Like most drug addictions, it can lead to relationship problems, feelings of isolation and financial ruin. It is nearly impossible to maintain friendships or keep a job when addicted to crystal meth.

From a health standpoint, the side effects of crystal meth are truly disastrous. In the short term, and after just one use, individuals may suffer from a dramatic loss of appetite, nausea, erratic or violent behavior, hallucinations, panic and even seizures. Using crystal meth can also cause body temperature to rise quickly, increase blood pressure and speed up the heart rate.

Over the long term, as is the case with crystal meth addiction, the side effects will worsen. The decreased appetite can lead to extreme weight loss and malnutrition. Other long-term effects can include the following:

• Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
• Severe tooth decay
• Chronic fatigue and apathy
• Liver, lung and kidney damage
• If crystal meth is snorted, nasal passage damage
• If crystal is smoked, damage to respiratory system

Addiction to crystal meth can also negatively impact mental health. Paranoia, depression and anxiety are all common among frequent users of crystal meth. In addition, it is common for crystal meth users to have violent outbursts of anger as well as memory loss and confusion. It is important to remember that the side effects of this drug go well beyond just the psychological aspects.

Of course, the worst potential side effect of a crystal meth addiction is death. Sadly, nearly 3,000 individuals overdose and die from crystal meth overdoses, as well as similar psychostimulants, in the United States every year.

Breaking Free From an Addiction to Crystal Meth

As devastating as an addiction to crystal meth can be, the illness doesn’t have to be a permanent condition. Drug addiction treatment can rid the body of crystal meth’s toxins, hit the restart button on health and begin the process of recovery.

The program for recovery will often start with a detox to physically break the chemical dependency on crystal meth. This process, which can last up to 10 days, is the time when patients may experience withdrawal symptoms. However, medical assistance can help mitigate those symptoms and increase comfort levels.

After detox is complete, patients can begin the work of learning more about addiction, revealing the underlying causes of the illness and preparing for independent living. Through behavioral therapy, group therapy, dual diagnosis treatment and holistic therapies based on everything from yoga to fitness, patients can take control of their lives and break free from crystal meth addiction.

Crystal meth goes by many different street names, but it all boils down to the same dangerous drug. Thankfully, addiction doesn’t have to be permanent, and there are treatment plans to help crystal meth addicts achieve and maintain sobriety and health.