Methamphetamine, the main component in crystal meth, is a potent central nervous system stimulant, according to Doctor of First Degree Specialist Nguyen Huu Khanh from the Neurology Department, Neuroscience Center, Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City. It directly impacts the brain's neurotransmitter systems. This substance often appears as crystal-like fragments, hence its street name "crystal meth."
Once in the body, methamphetamine rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier, stimulating the brain to release significant amounts of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, emotion, and motivation. This compelled and profuse release of dopamine by the brain generates intense euphoria, reduces feelings of hunger, and suppresses sleep. Some individuals may experience excessive confidence, talkativeness, increased physical activity, or a sensation of boundless energy, Doctor Khanh explains.
Methamphetamine also affects serotonin and norepinephrine, substances involved in regulating emotions and behavior, simultaneously disrupting multiple neurotransmitter systems. This condition leads users into states of agitation, anxiety, paranoia, or loss of behavioral control. This also explains why many crystal meth users exhibit aggressive, panicked, or erratic behavior.
However, this euphoric sensation is temporary. As dopamine levels rapidly decline after the stimulant rush, the brain enters an "empty" state, leaving users fatigued, despondent, agitated, or depressed. Many are inclined to reuse the drug to chase that euphoric feeling, gradually developing dependence.
According to Doctor Khanh, the brain gradually loses its ability to produce natural positive emotions if continuously overstimulated by methamphetamine. Long-term users must increase their dosage to achieve the same sensation as before, increasing the risk of prolonged neurological damage, which can lead to memory impairment, sleep disorders, lack of concentration, hallucinations, and paranoia.
Beyond its impact on the nervous system, the drug can stimulate rapid heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and increased body temperature, keeping the nervous system in a state of extreme tension. Some cases may involve seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, stroke, or multi-organ failure if high doses are used or combined with alcohol and other stimulants.
Doctor Khanh notes that synthetic drugs can be mixed with various chemicals and impurities of unknown origin, making their toxicity difficult to control. The same dose can elicit entirely different reactions in individuals, ranging from mild agitation to cardiac arrest or acute respiratory failure. Doctor Khanh advises against trying or using stimulants in any form to avoid the risk of dependence and long-term brain damage.
Trong Nghia
