How Long Does Meth Stay in Your System?
August 23, 2024
Table of Contents
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Michael Ferri
Last Updated on:
August 23, 2024
Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Meth is a highly addictive drug and many are impacted by the effects of it. In 2021, about 2.5 million people in the United States reported to using Methamphetamine in the previous 12 months. In Tennessee, specifically, methamphetamine is the third greatest drug threat to the state.
When people abuse methamphetamine and stop, they may find themselves experiencing a positive drug test despite not using for weeks. Often, they wonder “how long does meth stay in your system?” We’ll look at how the body processes meth, and how long it stays in your system depending on different drug tests.
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How Does The Body Process Meth?
When meth enters the body, it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body, reaching the brain the moment you consume it. Meth produces a euphoric effect by increasing the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. However, this intense high comes with serious risks, including addiction, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage.
Once meth is metabolized in the liver, it is broken down into various metabolites, including amphetamine. The body excretes these substances primarily through urine, but meth and its metabolites can also be detected in hair, saliva, and blood.
Factors That Influence How Long Meth Stays In Your System
While each person has their own unique genetic makeup, there can be several factors that determine how long meth stays in your system, including:
- Frequency and amount of use: Chronic and heavy meth use can lead to accumulation in the body, making it detectable for longer periods.
- Metabolism: Those with faster metabolisms process and eliminate meth more quickly.
- Age: Older adults generally metabolize drugs more slowly than younger people.
- Body fat and hydration levels: Meth can be stored in fatty tissues, and dehydration can slow its elimination from the body.
- Overall health: Liver and kidney function can greatly impact how quickly meth is processed and excreted in the body.
If You Stop Feeling The Effects of Meth, Is It Out Of Your System?
The initial and intense “rush” of meth can last up to 30 minutes. However, many report feelings of euphoria on an average of six to 12 hours. When the drug wears off it though, it does not mean that the drug has completely left your system.
Even after the euphoric high subsides, meth and its metabolites can remain in your system for days. This is why you can test positive for meth on a drug test even after the effects have faded.
How Long Can Meth Be Detected On a Drug Test?
The detection window for meth depends on the type of drug test used. The four most popular drug tests have different windows of effectiveness in how they detect meth.
While it’s important to understand, these drug tests don’t measure the current amount of the substance that is in the body, they measure the chemical compounds in the body from any previous consumtion. Here’s a breakdown of how long meth can be detected in various tests:
How Long Meth Stays In Urine
How Long Meth Stays In Your Hair
Hair tests for methamphetaine have the longest detection window. Meth can be detected in hair follicles for up to 90 days or even longer after use. This type of test is often used to determine long-term drug use.
How Long Meth Stays In Your Bloodstream
Meth is detectable in the blood for about 1 to 3 days after the last use. Blood tests are often used in medical settings or legal situations where recent drug use needs to be confirmed.
How Long Meth Stays In Your Saliva
Meth can be detected in saliva for about 1 to 4 days after use. Saliva tests are less common but may be used in some settings, such as roadside drug testing.
Are There Ways To Get Meth Out Of Your System Fast?
While some people may seek ways to accelerate the elimination of meth from their system, there is no scientifically proven method to do so safely. There are many things on the internet that state you can “flush” meth out of your system, however most often, these are myths.
Drinking plenty of water, exercising, and eating a healthy diet can support your body’s natural detoxification processes, but they won’t significantly speed up the elimination of meth. The best way to avoid meth showing up on a drug test is to refrain from using it altogether.
Finding Help For Methamphetamine Abuse
Methamphetamine abuse is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can have devastating effects on both the mind and body.
The damage caused by meth extends far beyond the immediate high, leading to long-lasting physical, psychological, and emotional consequences. Seeking professional treatment is crucial for anyone struggling with meth addiction, as the effects of the meth can last long after the last use. Treatment for meth addiction often requires long-term treatment that involve the following levels of care:
Meth Detox: Detox involves clearing the drug from the body and managing the intense withdrawal symptoms that follow. Meth withdrawal can include fatigue, depression, increased appetite, anxiety, and intense drug cravings, all of which can make the process difficult without professional support.
In a supervised meth detox program, medical professionals monitor physical and mental health, providing medications to ease withdrawal symptoms, and offer support to help you through this critical phase. Detoxing in a safe and controlled environment increases the chances of successfully managing withdrawal and sets the stage for further treatment.
Residential Treatment: Once detox is complete, residential treatment provides a structured environment where you can focus entirely on your recovery without the distractions and triggers of everyday life. These programs offer extensive therapies so individuals can learn and utilize new coping skills including individual counseling, group therapy, behavioral therapies, and holistic approaches.
Begin Detox in Nashville, Tennessee Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with methamphetamine addiction, don’t wait to seek help. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of a full and lasting recovery. Reach out to Music City Detox today to learn more about our comprehensive detox programs and start your journey to a meth-free life. Call us now at 615-695-1009 or verify your insurance today.