Meth Addiction
in Pacific North West
Methamphetamine
is a very potent stimulant of the central nervous system.
It acts on the dopamine receptors in the brain preventing its
reuptake, thus allowing an abnormal amount of dopamine circulation
in the body.

The dopamine stimulates brain cells and at the same time,
enhancing body actions and mood.
Other body activities that can be affected with the use of this
drug are appetite suppressant, heart rate, body temperature and
response associated with alertness.
In the United States, Meth addiction is more prevalent in the
Pacific North West, however growing populations nationwide is
observed.
Meth addiction in the pacific North West has been the result of
the increase importation of meth into the region by trafficking
groups.
This region also has the largest and most sophisticated
clandestine labs in the nation.
Seizures of
clandestine labs in the North West have increased from 44 in 1995
to more than 500 in 1997. In fact, the state of Missouri led the
nation in 1997 in the number of meth labs seized.
As fast as these labs are closed down, another lab opens.
In the pacific North West, there are not as much facilities and
treatment program as there are meth labs.
However programs are available for those who seek treatment,
although meth addiction treatment is consider the hardest of
addictions to treat.
Addicts are often too excited and very resistant to any form of
intervention once the acute the sensational effect of the drug as
dissipated.
While the withdrawal period is very slim, there are existing
effects of the meth on the brain may be the major problem.
During this period, recovering addicts feel depressed,
fuzzyheaded, and think life isn't as pleasurable without the
drug.
Because prolonged use causes changes in the brain, willpower
alone will not cure meth addicts for only ten percent of recovering
meth addicts remain sober.
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