Crystal Meth Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
Crystal meth is an illegal drug with a high potential for misuse and addiction. Those struggling with crystal meth addiction can face serious negative health outcomes, but evidence-based addiction treatment can help them achieve recovery.
What Is Crystal Meth?
Crystal methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a powerful central nervous stimulant with highly addictive properties.
Crystal meth is the illicit, crystalline form of methamphetamine. Legally manufactured methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II drug by the United States Controlled Substances Act, meaning:
- It has a high potential for abuse.
- It has a currently accepted medical use.
- Abuse of it may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
Pharmaceutical methamphetamine is used in medications that treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and, infrequently, in the treatment of cases of severe obesity.
The crystal form of methamphetamine—the street drug crystal meth—has no medical applications, and it is exclusively abused as a recreational substance.
