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Methamphetamine abuse has been on the rise in recent years, with an increasing number of individuals succumbing to the addictive properties of this powerful synthetic drug. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the number of people who reported using methamphetamine in the past four years increased from 684,000 to 1.6 million. This represents a significant increase of over 130% in previous years.

Truck drivers are particularly susceptible to methamphetamine use due to the long hours and demanding work schedule required in the industry. Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that can help individuals stay awake and alert for extended periods, making it an attractive option for drivers who need to meet tight deadlines and cover long distances. The increase in methamphetamine use in the trucking industry is a significant concern for employers and regulators, as it poses a risk to workplace safety and productivity.

With goMDnow drug testing services stay ahead of the growing problem of drug use in the workplace.

What is methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, is a powerful synthetic stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. The drug is typically produced in illegal laboratories and is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and crystal powder. Methamphetamine can be taken orally, snorted, smoked, or injected.

How long meth does stay in the system?

The effect of methamphetamine can be long-lasting, the half-life of a drug is 10 hours and it can stay in the body for around 4 days.

Methamphetamine can be detected in the body for varying amounts of time, depending on several factors, such as the dose taken, the method of use, and the individual's metabolism, age, weight, and health. Typically, methamphetamine can be detected in urine for up to 3-5 days and in hair up to 90 days after use

Risks and Dangers Associated with Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine can cause a range of physical and psychological side effects that can impair an individual's ability to function safely and effectively on the job, including:

Short-term side effects
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Elevated body temperature
  • Rapid breathing
  • Dilated pupils
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Dental problems and decay (known as "meth mouth")
  • Skin sores and infections
  • Increased risk of stroke and heart attack
Long-term side effects
  • Addiction and dependence
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Depression and anxiety disorders
  • Seizures and convulsions
  • Cardiovascular damage and hypertension
  • Respiratory problems and lung damage
  • Kidney damage and failure
  • Liver damage and failure
Methamphetamine affects the central nervous system
  • Insomnia or sleep disturbances
  • Paranoia and delusions
  • Hallucinations
  • Psychotic behavior
  • Tremors and muscle twitches
  • Agitation, irritability, and anxiety
  • Cognitive impairment and memory loss
  • Dilated pupils

In a Nutshell

Methamphetamine is an incredibly potent and insidious drug, notorious for its highly addictive nature and ability to cause catastrophic damage to both the physical and mental health of those who use it. As the latest research data reveals an alarming surge in methamphetamine use, employers must prioritize a drug-free workplace through panel drug testing.

goMDnow provides comprehensive drug testing services that can help detect methamphetamine use and other illicit substances, allowing employers to make informed decisions and promote a healthy and productive work environment.

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