Methamphetamine users report a rush of dopamine, a feel-good chemical responsible for pleasure, reward, and motivation. While not doing anything, meth users find themselves needing to keep moving. As a result, they have the illusion of being more productive than usual. Moreover, they may feel more confident.
Enhanced sexual performance
There are some important questions surrounding heightened sexual performance when using Methamphetamine. Meth is a highly addictive psychostimulant. Research has linked Meth abuse with increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as HIV. A study that looked at the effect of Meth on male sex performance used a dose-response curve to investigate its effects on sex behavior.
Reduced appetite
One of the side effects of methamphetamine is reduced appetite. Many users go days without eating, and their appetite is drastically reduced. Several studies have shown that methamphetamine decreases appetite by as much as 80 percent. In addition to weight loss, meth use can cause elevated blood pressure and a higher risk of heart attack. Therefore, it's important to consult a doctor if you suspect you are on meth.
Increased crime
The question of whether methamphetamine use is related to increased crime is not a new one. Many recent studies have shown that methamphetamine use increases crime rates. However, the relationship between the type of drug and the level of crime is not as clear-cut as many would like it to be. For example, Dobkin et al. (2005) report that a large percentage of methamphetamine use is linked to an increase in violent crime. But it is not clear whether this association holds unless the study uses discrete variables to determine the effect of methamphetamine use versus non-use.
Criminal effect on communities
A recent study by the National Association of County Officials shows that the methamphetamine epidemic has impacted the country. It is now spreading from the West to the East, with local production peaking in border counties in Western Virginia in 2014. The meth epidemic peaked in the Western United States in 2014, with its use waning after access to key ingredients was halted. Today, drug cartels are pumping cheap meth through established distribution networks.