Meth is a powerfully addictive stimulant primarily found in the U.S. as an illegal street drug. There are people addicted to this drug across the nation, including in Colorado. In addition, the increasing use of meth during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant spike in Colorado’s overdose rate. Problems like these point to a serious need for effective meth treatment. This kind of treatment can help people halt their drug use and return to a stable, sober daily routine.
Availability of Meth in Colorado
Colorado is not a significant producer of illegal methamphetamine. However, the state is known as a regional distribution hub for the drug. In 2021, more than 1,400 pounds of meth were seized by the Colorado State Patrol. That’s roughly twice the combined weight of all the cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl seized within the state. Illegal labs in Mexico are the source of the vast majority of Colorado meth.
Meth Usage and Addiction in Colorado
No one knows for sure how many people in Colorado use meth. But there is clear evidence that the level of use has increased since the pandemic began in 2020. This increase follows a nationwide trend for both meth and the opioid drug fentanyl.
Part of the recent rise in meth use stems from the pandemic’s negative impact on mental health. Another major factor is the low cost of the drug. The price of using meth per day in Colorado is estimated to be no more than $20 to $25.
These facts are important because repeated use of the drug can lead to stimulant use disorder. Many of the people affected by this disorder are addicted to meth. Others suffer serious harm from its use without meeting the criteria for addiction. How can you tell if you have a stimulant use disorder? Addiction-related symptoms of this condition include:
- Not being able to control how much meth you use or how often you use it
- Going into withdrawal if you don’t take a certain amount of the drug each day
- Needing to use more and more meth to feel its stimulating effects
- Creating a daily lifestyle centered around meth-related activities
- Continuing a pace of meth use that causes health problems for you
You may also try to quit using meth multiple times without succeeding.
Meth Overdoses in Colorado
Colorado meth overdoses have been on the rise since 2012. In recent years, well over 300 Coloradans have died annually from meth overdoses. Only fentanyl and other legal and illegal opioids are involved in more deaths. Many people who die of meth overdoses also have opioids in their systems. Potential symptoms of a meth overdose include:
- Pain in your chest
- Breathing difficulties
- A paranoid or agitated mental state
- Intense pain in your stomach
- An extremely high fever
- Seizures
- An irregular heartbeat
You can also have a heart attack or stroke if you overdose on meth. You may also go into cardiac arrest. In addition, a meth overdose can put you in a coma.
Learn More About Meth Use in Colorado at Northpoint Colorado
Colorado meth consumption is on the rise. The same holds for overdose deaths linked to the drug. If you’re using meth in Colorado, the only sure way to prevent addiction and overdose is to quit. If you’re already affected by addiction, you need meth treatment to support your safe recovery.
At Northpoint Colorado, we feature a comprehensive program for meth addiction treatment. With our help, you can devise and follow a customized plan that makes addiction recovery a realistic goal. We’re committed to helping Coloradans regain their sobriety. Call us today at 888.231.1281 or complete our online form to learn more about how we can help.