Methamphetamine is a stimulant that makes the body’s systems work much faster than normal. In fact, it is near the top of the list of dangerous drugs. It brings the potential for abuse, which leads to dependence.
Although methamphetamines are used recreationally, certain people do receive prescriptions to treat ADHD and other disorders. Oftentimes, individuals are drug tested for jobs or similar reasons. Therefore, it is important to learn the most common testing methods. How long does meth stay in your system? By taking a closer look at the drug’s effects and lasting symptoms, it may be possible to receive a solid answer.
Table of Contents
How Long Does it Take to Experience Effects of Meth?
This drug will take effect at different rates. To be sure, it depends on how it was administered. The amount being used makes a difference as well. In fact, smoking and orally ingesting meth are two of the fastest delivery methods. With these acts, the brain feels effects in seconds. A person’s “rush” is felt within a few minutes of oral use. It is important to recognize the effects of the drug.
- Lowered Appetite
- Heightened Attention
- Lowered Inhibitions
- Hyperthermia
Methamphetamines provide energy to a person in a short period of time. However, a crash occurs after a few hours that leaves him or her with feelings of tiredness and depression. Also, it is crucial to note that mixing meth with alcohol enhances impairment. In fact, it may raise the likelihood of developing alcohol poisoning.
How Long Does Meth Last?
To explain, the half-life of meth averages at 10 hours. In other words, it takes approximately 10 hours for half of the dosage to be metabolized and eliminated from a person’s blood. When ingested, meth levels peak after three hours and are eliminated after 12 hours. On the other hand, it takes a bit longer to leave the bloodstream when taken by injection.
When comparing meth to other drugs, its effects are longer-lasting. The euphoric effect is felt for up to 12 hours. There are certain stages of intoxication that occur.
- Rush. Immediately after ingesting the drug, the adrenaline high lasts up to 30 minutes.
- High. The rush is followed by a feeling of euphoria. This “shoulder” lasts up to 16 hours.
- Binge. Throughout the binge stage, a willing person does anything possible to maintain the high feeling by taking more of the drug. This may last for weeks. During this time, it may be difficult to eat or sleep.
- Tweaking. After an individual uses this drug for a long period of time, it stops producing the same high feelings. Therefore, an individual begins “tweaking” the amounts being taken. This may lead to paranoia. This phase can last for a few weeks.
To be sure, methamphetamines remain in a person’s system long after the effects go away. Even though a person may feel safe to drive or to operate heavy machinery, an impairment may still exist and cause distraction, fatigue, and cognitive issues.
Detection Time
Even though a methamphetamine high usually lasts less than one day, the drug remains in a person’s system for longer. Therefore, it is important to pinpoint how long the drug is detectable within an individual’s body. Of course, large amounts of meth will take longer to eliminate.
Common Types of Tests Used
The kind of test used to detect meth influences how long the drug will bring a positive result.
- Urine. A urine test is often used to detect drug use. With meth, it may be detected in urine for approximately five hours after use. Also, it may be detected for seven days after the last dosage.
- Blood. Blood tests are more sensitive. Meth may be detected within a few hours of use. It is detectable up to three days after the last dosage.
- Saliva. A saliva test may detect meth within minutes. Also, it may detect consumption for up to four days of the last dose.
- Hair. A hair follicle may be used to detect meth usage within the past three months.
False Positives
By far, urine tests are the most useful way of testing for drugs like meth. This type of test is quite accurate. However, it is possible to elicit a false-positive result. A urine test detects items with similar characteristics to meth. Certain medications share the same components of meth and may deliver a false positive. For instance, certain antibiotics, antipsychotics, decongestants, diabetes pills, blood pressure medicines, and antidepressants may lead to incorrect results.
Factors that Influence Detection Time
A person’s overall health, age, metabolism, and frequency of usage will alter the timetable for detecting meth in the body.
- Health. A person’s liver and kidney function influence the time that it takes a person to process meth and to eliminate it from the body.
- Frequency. To be sure, individuals who use meth on a frequent basis will have a prolonged detection period.
- Metabolism. A person with a quick metabolism will process and eliminate meth at a fast pace. To be sure, a person’s age and level of activity may affect metabolic rate.
- Method of Use. To repeat, the way that a person uses meth will influence detection time. In detail, oral ingestion means that elimination is slightly quicker than with injection.
Drug Testing at Home
Most people are familiar with the protocol and drug policies in many work environments. It is quite common for a potential employee to undergo a drug test before being hired. Likewise, present employees are often subject to spot testing while on the job. This ensures a safe workspace and upholds the health of all workers.
Besides adults, teens often fall victim to peer pressure to use methamphetamines. When parents suspect a problem, they are likely to want a way to uncover whether or not an issue is occurring. Home tests are valuable tools. There are a number of reasons why parents choose to test their children.
- Prevent Long-Term Abuse. Many parents feel that uncovering a problem early will prevent long-term usage. Although there is no proof of this, parents still choose to self-test to help curb use in their children.
- Prevent Future Use. If parents suspect a drug problem in their teen, it is typical to use an at-home test to confirm suspicions. Also, tests may be used on a regular basis to make sure drug use does not occur in the future or to make sure it has ceased.
- Determine Present Drug Usage. Many parents use at-home tests to uncover a teen’s drug use. Although these kits are not fool-proof, it is a solid way to detect a problem. If a positive test is discovered, it is a smart time to monitor the situation more carefully and to have serious discussions with the child.
What is a Good Drug Test Option?
If you are interested in drug testing and want to have something at your home or at your business for your employees, it is smart to have a reliable way to verify usage. Also, if you have recently taken drugs, it may be wise to have an at-home test to make sure everything has completely left your system.
The “12 Panel Advanced Urine and Drug Test Kit” (available for purchase on our site) is an inexpensive and accurate test that is simple to use. Also, it detects 12 different drugs, including meth. It is easy to understand and brings results in minutes. For peace of mind, it may be wise to keep a few on hand.
Published on: 2022-01-31
Updated on: 2024-03-15
