Methamphetamine use affects the lungs, kidneys, and liver. Pulmonary edema and cardiac arrest may occur after prolonged use. Prenatal Complications Methamphetamine use during pregnancy can cause major problems for babies, including asocial behavior, an inability to bond, tremors, and birth defects. Develop-mental problems may result because of reduced blood flow, and the drug may have a toxic effect on the fetal brain. Treatment Methamphetamine users may experience long-term physical and psychological effects.
Little information is available concerning methamphetamine-specific treatment programs.
However, research on protocols being used in other states is being reviewed. Public Education and Prevention Public education on the devastating effects of methamphetamine use on the human body and the environment, and about access to treatment services for those who need them, is essential to address growing methamphetamine use in Missouri as well as other states. Also, communitywide prevention strategies are needed to reduce the likelihood that methamphetamines will be used and to promote health and safety for the people of Missouri.