Overamping: Know the Signs of a Crystal Meth Overdose

Methamphetamine, or meth, is a highly addictive substance that stimulates the central nervous system. The result is a temporary high and euphoria, but also likely agitation, racing heart, and restlessness. Individuals build a tolerance to meth quickly, so they need larger, more frequent doses, causing dependence. Overamping is the term for stimulant abuse, such as crystal meth (a form of meth that looks like rocks or crystals). Methamphetamine overdose is a prevalent issue that can lead to personal destruction and death. It’s important to recognize the signs of a meth overdose to know when to seek help.

What Is a Crystal Meth Overdose?

Instead of the term “overdose,” the term “overamping” is commonly used when it comes to stimulants. This is because of confusion around how much of a stimulant is considered too much and qualifies as an overdose. Because all meth use is dangerous, it can be hard to pinpoint an overdose, especially considering many people believe overdosing isn’t possible.

Instead, oversampling adequately defines the dangerous effects of stimulant drug abuse. With that said, oversampling can refer to the following after taking the drug:

• Heart rate 2-3 times faster than regular
• Inability to move or walk
• Inability to wake up
• Seizures
• Intense headache
• Memory lapse
• Hallucinations or delusions
• Aggression
• Fear or paranoia
• Uncontrollable “flailing” movements
• Sensory overload

In sum, overamping refers to symptoms of crystal meth use that can be severe and equivalent to an overdose of the drug. All crystal meth use puts the person at risk.

Meth Use Statistics

Regardless of its dangers, meth use continues. In the United States, approximately 2.5 million people use it per year. Medically, stimulants like amphetamines can be prescribed for conditions like ADHD or obesity. Yet, because of the huge threat of abuse, this is rare. Mostly, people use meth recreationally. It also has a reputation as a party drug, which leads to many young people using it. In 2021, a reported 32,537 people died from stimulant abuse, with the primary drug being methamphetamines.

How Do People Use Meth?

Crystal meth is a man-made illicit substance that can only be created and purchased illegally. What does crystal meth look like? It resembles white or clear rocks or crystals but may look more brown, grey, or colorful. It can also be ground into powder. People use meth in a variety of ways.

Injecting Meth

Meth can be injected with a needle for more intense results. Those with dependence may need to inject it in order to get the same results as they first did.

Smoking Meth

Meth can be smoked through a crystal meth pipe or by heating it and inhaling the vapor.

Snorting Meth  

In powder form, meth is commonly snorted through the nose.         

What Are the Sign and Symptoms of a Meth Overdose? 

Unfortunately, it’s a common misconception that methamphetamine can’t be overdosed. In reality, many people die from meth abuse each year. If you’re wondering if you can overdose on meth, the answer is yes. There are common meth overdose symptoms to watch for.

Physical Signs

Stimulants trigger physical symptoms in the body quickly after taking the drug. Some symptoms occur during use, and others as part of withdrawal. The exact symptoms and severity depend on the person.

• Fatigue or exhaustion
• Headaches
• Muscle tension
• Shakes and tremors
• Fast heart rate
• Itchiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Poor dental health

Behavioral Signs

There are also behavioral meth overdose signs that can occur during or after using meth. Sometimes, behavioral symptoms last after the high, such as during withdrawal. Symptoms can include:

• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression or hopelessness
• Anger
• Paranoia
• Confusion
• Poor memory
• Low motivation
• Lack of desire to engage in former interests