Short-term side effects of meth, such as rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure and increased body temperature, usually fade when meth leaves the body. Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly addictive drug. Meth is … Negative effects can also include disturbed sleep patterns, hyperactivity, nausea, delusions of power, increased aggressiveness and irritability. Learn about meth addiction symptoms, signs, side effects, withdrawal and causes of methamphetamine abuse. Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful, highly addictive drug that causes devastating health effects, and sometimes death, even on the first try. Side Effects. The effects of methamphetamine on unborn babies in pregnant women can be significant. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and illegal drug that is known for its euphoric effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur: Methamphetamine use releases very high levels of dopamine in the reward circuit of the brain which “teaches” the brain … Methamphetamine can also cause a variety of cardiovascular problems, including rapid heart rate, irregular heartbeat, and increased blood pressure. The first time a person uses meth, they are not likely to experience many of the negative side effects associated with long-term use. The side effects of Methedrine addiction can cause long-lasting, often permanent damage to addicts’ brains and bodies. Other commonly seen side effects include irregular heart rate, damage to small blood vessels in the brain and eyes, and hyperthermia, which is an unregulated increase in the body's temperature. Also known as crystal meth, ice, and crystal, this drug has been one of the most commonly abused drugs in the nation since its introduction in the early 1930s. 1 In some cases, use can cause convulsions that lead to death. Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. It is related to the legal stimulant amphetamine, but has stronger effects. Lakeview, a psychiatric health hospital that treats issues including schizophrenia, bipolar, depression & substance abuse. Drug information provided by: IBM Micromedex. As a powerful stimulant, methamphetamine, even in small doses, can increase wakefulness and physical activity and decrease appetite. Other serious effects can include insomnia, confusion, hallucinations, anxiety and paranoia. Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that is illegal in the United States. Some effects of meth continue for years after last use. The nerves located in the CNS are referred to as neurons, whereas the nerves outside the CNS are simply referred to as nerves. It is the second highest illicit drug used worldwide. According to a survey by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, most meth addicts try the drug for the first time when they are around 19 years old. Research looking at the effects of methamphetamine focus primarily on the effects that occur in the brain; however, some of these effects can also be expected to generalize to neurons located in the spinal cord. However, the long-term effects don’t go away as quickly.