Is Snorting Meth a Real Way to Get High?

Methamphetamine (meth) can be ingested or snorted. Snorting is preferred because it metabolizes in the body more quickly. To understand the risks, it is important to know how meth works, side effects and safety concerns when using the drug.

What’s in Meth?

Active ingredients included in methamphetamine are pseudoephedrine or ephedrine. The ingredients are generally used as antihistamines or allergy medicines. Dangerous chemical compounds exist in meth snorted for recreation. Some of the items used in meth are found in local convenience stores such as:

• Acetone
• rubbing alcohol
• Iodine
• starter fluid (used for ether)
• gas additives (which contain methanol)
• drain cleaners (for sulfuric acid)
• match tips (contains red phosphorus)
• lye, paint thinner
• rock salt
• lithium from batteries.

Effects of Snorting Meth

The effects on meth on the body can produce highly pleasurable sensations. Overdosing on meth is possible when it is snorted causing strokes and possible irreversible brain damage. Some of the effects of meth can include:

• Increased energy
• Alertness
• Decreased appetite
• Feelings of euphoria felt almost immediately

Body Changes

When meth is snorted, high levels of dopaminea are released in the area of the brain which controls feelings of pleasure. The effects can last up to 12 hours. Taking meth more frequently or using various methods of ingestion can help intensify the effects. In extreme cases, individuals may refrain from eating and sleeping to ‘run’ which is a binge period in which a person snorts as much as a gram of meth every 2 to 3 hours over several days to maintain a ‘high.’

Risks of Snorting Meth

Small doses of methamphetamine can create increased wakefulness in addition to a variety of cardiovascular reactions. Short-term side effects of meth use can include:

• Decreased appetite
• Euphoria and rush
• Hyperthermia
• Increased activity and wakefulness
• Increased attention and decreased fatigue
• Increased respiration
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Snorting methamphetamine can result in addiction. A person addicted to meth will compulsively seek and use the drug in spite of consequences to mental and physical health. The effects of using meth can last for months or years, even if a person stops using meth. Some of the long-term dangers associated with meth abuse include:

• Addiction
• Aggressive or violent behavior
• Changes in brain structure and function
• Memory loss
• Mood disturbances
• Psychosis (paranoia, hallucinations, repetitive motor activity)
• Severe dental problems (including “meth mouth”)
• Weight loss

The active ingredients in meth are used to treat colds and allergies. Other forms of meth in low doses are used to treat narcolepsy (sleep disorder) however, no known use for snorting methamphetamine has been found to be useful or safe. It is important to understand the risks and dangers of snorting meth to determine whether or not an individual feels safe using it in this manner.

Hired Power provides resources and support services for individuals and families struggling with addiction. If you or a loved one need help with a methamphetamine addiction, call today at 800-910-9299.