Methamphetamine: Implications for the Dental Team
Methamphetamine Effects on the Body

Methamphetamine is classified by the US Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule II stimulant, which means it has a high potential for abuse and is available only through a prescription that cannot be refilled. There are a few accepted medical reasons for its use, such as the treatment of narcolepsy, attention deficit disorder and for short-term use to treat obesity. The medical uses of methamphetamine are limited and it is rarely prescribed. When prescribed, the dose is far lower than that typically abused. Meth use can produce devastating, sometimes fatal consequences that affect all systems of the body, including central nervous system, cardiovascular and respiratory effects. Numerous acute and chronic physical, behavioral and psychological side effects are evident.