Crystal Meth addiction treatment

The treatment for crystal meth (crystal methamphetamine, "ice", "batu", or "Tina") addiction is not a lot different than other forms of addiction. There are, however, some promising medications that look like they may have some benefit in terms of reducing craving and risk of relapse. Crystal meth addiction is highly treatable.

Hawaii, unfortunately, was the gateway to the rest of the US for crystal meth. This is true because crystal meth had been an asian drug before it came to the US. When I came to Hawaii in the early 90's, I was seeing patients who had been addicted to crystal meth for 10 years or more! Most of the patients that we saw were men who were experiencing fairly severe paranoia and psychosis. We were also involved in some of the first studies with brain PET scanning in long-standing crystal meth addicts. Crystal meth has unfortunately evolved to become a problem across the US and through all age and socio-economic classes, including young women who use crystal meth as a weight loss drug.

The crystal meth addicted brain looks like Swiss cheese on the PET scans. No joke. Crystal meth is a horrible substance. It is made from a conglomeration of horrible household and over the counter products that cause serious brain damage. It is highly addictive and it is cheap. Not a good combination! However, with abstinence and treatment, the brain has the possibility of recovering its function.

I strongly recommend a good, holistic drug rehab for those suffering from crystal meth addiction. One that has experience in the treatment of crystal meth addiction. With the right addiction treatment, you or a loved one can get much better. You can have your life back again.

John Neuhaus, M.D.