What Is Methamphetamine Withdrawal?

Methamphetamine withdrawal occurs when the body exhibits symptoms after methamphetamine use is discontinued. The severity of withdrawal is dependent on the level of abuse of the drug and can start within hours to a couple of days after stopping. Symptoms of methamphetamine withdrawal include cravings for the drug, depression and fatigue. The most difficult phase of withdrawal occurs in the first week, but treatment and support beyond the initial withdrawal period is generally recommended. One of the most successful methods of overcoming methamphetamine addiction is to have the support of trained drug rehabilitation specialists during and after withdrawal.

A powerful central nervous system stimulant, psychostimulant, and neurotoxin, methamphetamine belongs to the phenethylamine and amphetamine class of drugs. The drug has a high potential risk for abuse and addiction. It creates a sense of euphoria and increases concentration and alertness. High doses and long-term use can cause aggressive behavior, brain damage and malnutrition. Physical effects of the drug include rapid heart rate, elevated blood pressure and permanent damage to the cardiovascular system if abused long term.

Methamphetamine withdrawal can start as soon as a few hours after stopping the drug. The first phase of withdrawal is the most difficult while the body detoxifies, clearing the drug from the system. Lasting from seven to ten days, this phase is characterized by intense cravings for the drug, increased appetite and fatigue. Crankiness, irritation and depression are also common during the first week of withdrawal. The discomfort of the symptoms peaks in the first days of detoxification, and this is the time when some return to the drug for relief of the withdrawal symptoms.

After the initial phase of methamphetamine withdrawal, symptoms become less intense and uncomfortable. Some medications have shown success in easing the withdrawal and detoxification process. Behavioral support and group therapy are commonly used as interventions to help people overcome methamphetamine addiction. Those who seek professional help during detoxification and withdrawal from the drug have greater success.

Short-term drug rehabilitation care manages the symptoms of withdrawal and begins behavior modification therapies to help the patient overcome his or her addiction. Long-term care provides continuing support and monitors both mental and physical health issues. Depression, permanent damage to the heart and liver, and ongoing social issues can present problems for the recovering methamphetamine user.

Although generally thought of as an illegal street drug, several medical uses exist for methamphetamines. These include treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and exogenous obesity, a condition caused by excessive food intake. Withdrawal is generally not an issue with correctly prescribed and taken methamphetamine medication. Taking doses much higher than prescribed or abruptly stopping the medication can result in some withdrawal symptoms, however.