CRYSTAL METH
Crystal meth is the common name for crystal methamphetamine, a strong and highly addictive drug that affects the central nervous system. There is no legal use for it.
It comes in clear crystal chunks or shiny blue-white rocks. Also called “ice” or “glass,” it’s a popular party drug. Usually, users smoke crystal meth with a small glass pipe, but they may also swallow it, snort it, or inject it into a vein. People say they have a quick rush of euphoria shortly after using it. But it’s dangerous. It can damage your body and cause severe psychological problems.
Crystal meth is popular among young adults at dance clubs and parties. It is taken for its euphoric effects.
Some people take it because it can lead to rapid weight loss, although most of the lost weight tends to return when a person stops using the drug.
The body also gradually becomes tolerant to crystal meth, reducing the weight-loss effect over time.
Some people prefer crystal meth to other illicit drugs because the sense of euphoria it gives can last for up to 12 hours. This is a much longer duration than cocaine, a drug with similar effects.
People with depression may choose to take crystal meth for its mood-enhancing properties.
Others may be attracted by the increased libido and sexual pleasure often associated with this drug.
MDMA
MDMA is a drug that alters a person’s mood by changing the release of chemicals in the body that affect mood and behavior.
Researchers are currently looking into the effects of pure MDMA on the brain to try to determine whether it could help treat depression.
Here, we look at the effects of MDMA on depression, as well as the potential therapeutic benefits of other recreational drugs. We also discuss the risks of using these drugs as treatments for mental health conditions.
MDMA causes an increase in the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and, in particular, serotonin. The rise in serotonin causes an elevation in mood.
One potential benefit of MDMA as an antidepressant treatment is how quickly it works to alter the mood.
Traditional depression medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can take about 6 weeks to provide significant relief.
In contrast, MDMA may provide instant relief from depressive symptoms. A 2012 study looked at the immediate effects of MDMA in people with and without a predisposition to depression.
The study included 40 participants, with 20 people in the MDMA group and 20 in the control group. In people with a predisposition to depression, the consumption of MDMA caused a significant reduction in depressive symptoms.
However, researchers need further evidence to confirm the long-term antidepressant activity of MDMA.
