Thread by @sulmoney

🚀💊 Get ready for an incredible journey into the world of #methamphetamine! Did you know it was originally used to keep soldiers alert in WWII? Let's explore its fascinating history and impact on society on this week's #SubstanceSaturdays⚠️

🔍 First synthesized in 1893, methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant. It gained popularity for various purposes, including treatment of ADHD, obesity, and narcolepsy. Its use skyrocketed during WWII, where it was given to soldiers to stay awake and alert 🌍💣

💊👩‍⚕️ Pharmaceutical use of methamphetamine peaked in the 1950s-60s under the brand name Desoxyn. The FDA still approves it today for treating ADHD and exogenous obesity, but its use is highly controlled due to its potential for misuse. It's a Schedule II drug 🚨📋

🧠⚡️ Let's dive into the brain to explore how methamphetamine works its magic – or rather, its dark spell. Meth primarily affects three neurotransmitters: dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. 🔬🔍

💥🎢 Methamphetamine increases the release of dopamine, the "feel-good" chemical responsible for pleasure and reward. It also blocks dopamine reuptake, causing a massive flood of dopamine in the brain. This results in a powerful euphoric rush – but at a steep cost. 😃➡️😞

🌩️⚖️ Meth also impacts serotonin and norepinephrine, causing increased arousal, alertness, and a sense of well-being. But beware, long-term use can damage neurons and deplete these neurotransmitters, leading to a myriad of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety 🧠💔

🕶️🔥 The illicit production and use of methamphetamine gained momentum in the 1970s and 1980s. Due to its relatively simple manufacturing process, people started making it in clandestine labs, using readily available ingredients. This led to a surge in abuse and addiction 😵‍💫🏚️

🎬🌵 "Breaking Bad" brought methamphetamine into the mainstream, depicting the world of meth production and distribution. While it raised awareness, the show also sparked curiosity and possibly influenced the drug's popularity. 📈🤔

😷💔 Methamphetamine can have devastating effects on the body. Short-term effects include increased alertness, euphoria, and decreased appetite. Long-term use can lead to addiction, dental problems, skin sores, cognitive impairment, and even fatal overdose. ⚠️🩺

😬🦷 "Meth mouth" is a notorious side effect of meth use. It's characterized by severe tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. Meth use leads to dry mouth, cravings for sugary drinks, constricted blood vessels with reduced blood flow to oral tissues, and teeth grinding 😟🩸

📊🌎 The use of methamphetamine has surged in recent years, especially in the US, where it's estimated that 1.6 million people tried it in 2020. The drug has also spread to other parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, where it's produced on a massive scale. 🌏📈

🤔💬 As we wrap up this week's #SubstanceSaturdays⚠️, it's essential to understand the risks and impact of methamphetamine on individuals and society. What can be done to address the growing problem of methamphetamine addiction and misuse? Share your thoughts below! ✍️🗨️