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NATIONAL METHAMPHETAMINE TRAINING & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER
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Q: How will I know if someone near me is using meth?

A: Here are some symptoms of meth use as developed from the National Institute on Drug Abuse by the Meth Awareness Project of South Dakota:

Changes that would signal early meth use:
  • Euphoric "high" state (excessively happy)
  • Paranoia
  • Decreased appetite
  • Increased physical activity
  • Anxiety, shaking hands, nervousness
  • Incessant talking
  • Rapid eye movement
  • Increased body temperature
    (can rise as high as 108 degrees and cause death)
  • Dilated pupils
  • Sweating not related to physical activity

Behavior and signs of more prolonged meth use:
  • Weight loss
  • Strong body odor
  • Shadows under the eyes
  • Dry or itchy skin
  • Pale complexion
  • Acne/Acne-type sores
  • Irritable and moody (mood swings)
  • Picking at skin or hair
  • Aggressive or violent behavior
  • Depression (withdrawal/tolerance effect)
  • Severe nail biting
  • Nose bleeds, nasal perforations
  • Dermatitis around the mouth
  • Lack of personal hygiene

Symptoms of advanced meth use:
  • Extreme weight loss
  • Hair loss
  • Discolored, rotten or missing teeth
  • Corneal ulcerations
  • Severe mental illness symptoms, similar to schizophrenia
    (including anger, panic, paranoia, auditory and visual hallucinations, repetitive behavior patterns)

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