Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive drug that dramatically effects the nervous system, and the brain.  It is an odorless crystaline substance that dissolves easily in water or alcohol.  The drug works directly on the brain and the spinal cord by interfering with the normal neurotransmission.  Neurotransmitters are chemical substances naturally produced within nerve cells used to communicate with each other and send messages to influence and regulate our thinking and all other systems throughout the body.

The main neurotransmitter affected by methamphetamine is dopamine.  Dopamine is involved with our natural reward system.  For example, feeling good about a job well done, getting pleasure from family or social interactions, feeling content and that our lives are meaningful all rely on dopamine transmission.  The immediate rush of methampheamine use can be equated to the rush felt when sliding down a snowy hill on a sled.  Initial use can feel like that constantly for hours at a time.

Meth has a high potential for abuse and dependence due to its addictive nature.  It has a diminishing return.  Users once addicted, use more and in turn need more.  The more they use the more they need.  The more they need the worse they get, mentally, physically, and emotionally.  Over time nothing else matters to a user except getting the drug.

Regular users often lose everything to get the drug.  They will sacrifice it all to include their home, their family and their friends.  Often users wind up broke, alone, and physically unhealthy.  An extreme intervention is necessary to get them treated and recovered from the addiction.