Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a powerful and highly addictive central nervous system stimulant. An overdose, often called “overamping,” can lead to severe health complications, organ damage, or death.
How Methamphetamine Affects the Body
Methamphetamine exerts its effects by causing a massive release of key neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Dopamine, often associated with pleasure and reward, floods the brain, leading to an intense euphoric “rush” that is often short-lived. This surge of neurotransmitters overstimulates the central nervous system, creating a cascade of physiological responses.
The overstimulation rapidly increases heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. This strains the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to serious cardiac events. The intense physiological stress can overwhelm the body’s natural regulatory systems, disrupting normal functions like breathing and heart rate. This chemical imbalance forms the basis for the dangerous effects of a methamphetamine overdose.
Recognizing Methamphetamine Overdose Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of a methamphetamine overdose is crucial for timely intervention. Physical symptoms include a rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and elevated body temperature (hyperthermia). Individuals may also experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, profuse sweating, and seizures.
Neurological and psychological symptoms are also prominent during an overdose. These can manifest as agitation, confusion, and disorientation. Paranoia, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real), and psychosis are common and can make the situation more unpredictable. In severe cases, a person might lose consciousness, enter a coma, or suffer a stroke or heart attack.
Factors That Increase Overdose Risk
Several factors can increase the likelihood of a methamphetamine overdose. The drug’s purity and potency play a role, as methamphetamine can vary greatly in strength and may contain toxic impurities. Using a large amount in a short period also heightens risk.
Poly-drug use, particularly combining methamphetamine with other stimulants or depressants like opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines, can lead to unpredictable and dangerous effects. For instance, fentanyl, a potent opioid, is sometimes mixed with methamphetamine without the user’s knowledge, increasing the risk of a fatal overdose. The method of administration also impacts risk; injecting or smoking methamphetamine leads to a faster and more intense onset of effects compared to snorting or ingesting, potentially increasing overdose risk. Individual tolerance levels can fluctuate, and pre-existing health conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure can make a person more vulnerable to the drug’s toxic effects. Using methamphetamine alone also increases risk, as there is no one present to provide help in an emergency.
What to Do During a Methamphetamine Overdose
In the event of a suspected methamphetamine overdose, immediate action is necessary. Call emergency services, such as 911. This is a medical emergency that requires professional attention, and prompt medical care can improve the outcome.
While waiting for help to arrive, stay with the person. If unconscious or vomiting, carefully turn them onto their side to prevent choking and ensure their airway remains clear. Monitor their breathing and try to keep them awake if they appear drowsy. Do not attempt to self-treat the overdose, induce vomiting, or leave the person unattended, as these actions can worsen the situation.