Methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, is an addictive drug that stimulates the central nervous system. It can be injected, snorted, smoked, or taken by mouth in pill form.
Drug tests used to screen for meth include:
- blood tests
- urine tests
- hair follicle tests
- saliva tests
Meth has a half-life of about 10 hours. This is the amount of time half of the drug is eliminated from the bloodstream.
Although side effects of meth can go away within hours, meth may be detected in the blood for one to four days after your last use.
What Factors Can Affect Meth Detection Time?
It can take longer for some bodies to metabolize methamphetamine. This can be due to a wide range of biological and personal factors related to overall health and substance use.
Factors that can affect how long meth stays in the blood:
- frequency of use
- method of use (e.g. snorting vs injecting)
- amount of meth used
- taking multiple drugs
- slow metabolism
- co-occurring health conditions
If you’re physically dependent on meth, it may take longer for it to be fully eliminated from your system. Taking large amounts of meth can also cause it to stay in your system longer.
Why Would A Doctor Order A Blood Test?
Blood tests can be ordered by healthcare providers to monitor prescription drug use or if they suspect someone is using illicit drugs.
Common signs of meth use include:
- hyperactivity
- fast or irregular heart rate
- dramatic weight loss
- dental problems
- high blood pressure
- psychosis
- track marks on the arms
Meth is a stimulant. It can boost energy and affect chemicals in the brain that are associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward.
Repeated use of meth can disrupt the normal balance of brain chemicals and can increase the risk of developing an addiction.
How To Get Meth Out Of Your System
Time is the only surefire way to get meth out of your system. There’s no special tip that works for everyone who wants a negative test result for meth.
People who are addicted to meth will often have a hard time getting off meth for long enough to get a negative result. This is because meth can be both physically and psychologically addictive.
Trying to quit meth all at once may cause withdrawal symptoms, such as strong cravings for meth, severe depression, and psychosis. This can be difficult to manage alone.
If you want to stop using meth, entering a detox program is highly recommended.
A detox center can offer a safe and supervised setting to withdraw from meth and connect with a treatment center for additional care.
Finding Treatment For Meth Addiction
Conquering an addiction to meth is possible. You don’t have to do it alone. Call our helpline today to find meth addiction treatment options for yourself or a loved one near you.
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- US Drug Test Centers—5 Panel Drug Test
https://www.usdrugtestcenters.com/5-panel-drug-test.html - U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse—Methamphetamine DrugFacts
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine
