The Difference Between Meth and Crystal Meth

Methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, is a highly addictive drug. When used regularly, it can destroy jobs, relationships, and even families. But what is the difference between meth and crystal meth? Both terms refer to the same drug, but there is more to them than meets the eye. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between meth and crystal meth, including their history, physical appearance, effects, and treatment. Read on to learn more about these dangerous drugs.

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine, or meth, is a stimulant drug that is highly addictive. It is manufactured and used in the same way as crystal meth, with the main difference being that crystal meth is added to various products while methamphetamine is made from chemicals found in household items like shampoos, toothpastes, and batteries.

Methamphetamine can be snorted, smoked, injected, or swallowed. Once in the body, it takes about 90 minutes for the drug to reach its full effect. People who choose to inject methamphetamine typically have a higher rate of infection with HIV and other blood-borne diseases.

Crystal Meth

Like methamphetamine, crystal meth also contains a stimulant drug known as amphetamine. However, crystal meth is made from meth produced in a lab. Crystal meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, or swallowed. It takes about one hour for crystal meth to reach its full effect in the body.

While both methamphetamine and crystal meth can damage the body and brain, crystal meth is thought to be more addictive. This is likely because crystal meth is made in a lab, while methamphetamine is a natural drug found in many plants.

Differences Between Crystal Meth and Methamphetamine

There are many similarities and only a few clear differences between crystal meth and meth. Here’s a breakdown of the main points:

Cost – Crystal meth is generally more expensive than methamphetamine because it is made in a lab and has a higher markup. Crystal meth is generally more expensive than methamphetamine because it is made in a lab and has a higher markup. 

Appearance – Crystal meth is more likely to be cut with other substances, so its color, texture, and look can vary. Crystal meth is more likely to be cut with other substances, so its color, texture, and look can vary. 

Addiction – Both crystal meth and methamphetamine are highly addictive drugs. The difference is that crystal meth is made in a lab and is, therefore, more likely to be addictive.

Effects – While crystal meth and methamphetamine share similar effects, the types of effects they produce in the body are different. Crystal meth produces a more “head high” while methamphetamine produces a “body rush”.

How Crystal Meth Is Made

Crystal meth is made using a process called “smash”. During this process, amphetamine is smeared onto a surface and then ground up and mixed with other substances. The end result is that meth is combined with toxic impurities and can produce both immediate and long-term side effects.

Smash is usually done in a clandestine lab, meaning that it takes place in a home without any safety equipment. The meth makers may be using the kitchen or a spare room as their meth lab.

Physical Appearance of Crystal Meth

Crystal meth is typically a bright, colorful, and shiny substance. It may be yellow, orange, red, or purple and can also contain shards of glass or other unusual objects.

Effects of Crystal Meth

Crystal meth produces stimulating effects, both short-term and long-term, that affect every part of the body. The short-term effects of crystal meth are increased energy, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, increased alertness, and increased confidence.

These effects are similar to those of amphetamine and may result in increased productivity at work or school, but they can also make it difficult to sleep or to eat well.

The long-term effects of crystal meth are very similar to those of amphetamine but may be more intense. They include nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, increased risk of mania and psychosis, and reduced appetite and weight.

How to Quit Crystal Meth

Like other drugs of abuse, crystal meth is habit-forming. Because of this, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible if you or someone you know is using the drug.

If you’re struggling with crystal meth use, there are a few things you can do. First, talk to your doctor. He or she can help you decide if you need to detox from the drug and if so, for how long. If detox isn’t necessary, outpatient therapy and support groups can help you address the reasons why you used crystal meth in the first place and help you to develop a plan for quitting.

Trust Oasis Recovery 

The difference between crystal meth and methamphetamine is subtle but important. Both drugs affect the body and the mind and produce similar effects. However, crystal meth is made in a lab and is, therefore, more likely to be addictive. If you or a loved one is using crystal meth, there are ways to get help.

Substance abuse and addiction can affect anyone. If you or a loved one are currently struggling with addiction, help is available! We encourage you to reach out to the professionals at Oasis Recovery to learn more about our personalized treatment programs and mental health services. Oasis Recovery was founded from firsthand experience of addiction and recovery, with a mission of providing a space where people can heal from addiction in a compassionate, creative, open-minded, and heart-centered environment. We believe recovery is always possible. Our experts work with you to design a treatment plan that fits your needs. Common treatment programs include:

• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
• Full-time Addiction Treatment on campus
• Aftercare Services

Contact us today for more information about how our programs and services can help you get your life back on track. You no longer have to struggle with addiction on your own. We are here to help.