Brain's 'pleasure center' gets a boost
When methamphetamine is smoked or snorted the impact is nearly immediate.
Meth causes a massive release  of dopamine, a chemical that stimulates the brain's "pleasure center."

Video on meth and the brain

The initial reaction to the dopamine release:
  • Increased energy and alertness
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Euphoria
  • Increased sexuality
  • A "high" that can last up to
    12 hours or more






Methamphetamine is a most powerful stimulant. Comparing dopamine releases of meth and other stimuli:
About the center
Nationwide epidemic
Nationwide epidemic
NATIONAL METHAMPHETAMINE TRAINING & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER
Source: UCLA Integrated
Substance Abuse Programs
INSIDE THE EPIDEMIC
THE INITIAL RUSH