What is Crank?

Crank is a popular slang term for methamphetamine. Methamphetamine (also known as meth) is a powerful, illicit stimulant drug. Using this dangerous drug can cause short and long-term damage to your physical health and mental well-being. 

Overcoming meth addiction can be challenging. Many people require intensive treatment to stop using it and continued treatment to avoid relapse.

This article will explore crank abuse and addiction. You will learn:

• The side effects and risks of using the crank drug
• How to recognize crank abuse
• Where to find substance abuse treatment and recovery support

Contact the addiction specialists at Moving Mountains Recovery to learn about our addiction treatment and recovery support programs. Get the answers to your questions, verify your insurance, or schedule an appointment by reaching out today.  

What is Crank?

Crank is a slang term for an illicit stimulant drug called methamphetamine. Other street names for meth include:

• Crystal meth
• Ice
• Speed
• Hawaiian salt
• Blue
• Shaved ice
• Stovetop
• Shards
• L.A. Ice
• White
• Zip
• Hot ice

Many of the street names for meth refer to its appearance, which is typically pale crystals. Users commonly ingest meth by smoking, snorting, or injecting it. 

Meth is a synthetic drug. People make this dangerous drug by combining common household chemicals in illegal labs. This process is risky and produces a harmful substance.

Methamphetamine is highly addictive, meaning people can develop physical dependence after a short period of use. 

The Side Effects of Crank Abuse

Meth is a stimulant drug, meaning that it increases central nervous system (CNS) activity. Short-term effects of the crank drug include:

• Euphoria
• Elevated heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Poor balance and coordination
• Appetite loss
• Increased energy
• Aggression 
• Mood swings
• Memory problems
• Confusion
• Depression
• Hallucinations
• Paranoia
• Anxiety
• Delusions
• Violent behaviors
• Difficulty with concentration

Prolonged periods of crank abuse can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. 

Understanding the Long-Term Risks of Crank Abuse

Meth abuse can cause serious, long-term health problems. Some of the long-term effects include:

• Mental health issues
• Skin infections and scarring
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Severe dental decay (meth mouth)
• Higher risk of stroke and heart attack
• Malnutrition
• Extreme weight loss
• Damage to the sinuses and nasal passages
• Lung damage

The long-term effects of crank can depend on whether it was snorted, smoked, or injected. Many of these consequences can be life-threatening. It is critical to seek effective treatments as soon as you recognize the signs of crank abuse or addiction. 

Recognizing Crank Abuse and Addiction

Crank abuse can cause changes in a person’s thinking, behaviors, and appearance. Recognizing signs of crank abuse can help you get treatment as quickly as possible. 

Common signs of meth abuse include:

• Quick or dramatic weight loss
• Aggression
• Violent behaviors
• Skin marks and infections from scratching or picking
• Memory problems
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Paranoia

People with meth addiction may have behavioral changes, including:

• Using more meth or using it more often
• Needing to use more meth to get the desired effects
• Doing dangerous, dishonest, or illegal things to get meth or money
• Neglecting their relationships, responsibilities, and hobbies
• New legal or financial trouble related to their drug use
• Using meth in dangerous situations, like while driving
• Spending a lot of time and energy getting, using, and recovering from using meth

People who develop a methamphetamine addiction are often unable to stop using the drug without intensive treatment and ongoing support. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize crank abuse or addiction. 

Meth Addiction Treatment

Substance use disorder (SUD)  is a complex condition that requires comprehensive, compassionate treatment. Here is an overview of what to expect during a crank addiction program. 

Assessment

Before starting a treatment program, your treatment team will assess your needs. This assessment may include:

• Information about your past and current substance use (which substances, how much, how often, etc.)
• A mental health and medical history
• Family history of SUD
• A physical examination
• Lab testing

This information can help medical and mental health professionals recommend the right levels and types of care to meet your needs. 

Detox

Many people begin recovery in a medically supported detox program. During detox, your treatment team will monitor and treat your meth withdrawal symptoms, which may include:

• Increased appetite
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Delusional thinking
• Intense cravings

A detox treatment plan may include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Round-the-clock supervision
• A safe, secure setting
• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and ensure comfort
• Emotional support
• Holistic therapies, including nutrition support, mindfulness, yoga, and more

This intensive, holistic care can help people have a safe, complete detox from drugs and alcohol. 

Treatment

Methamphetamine addiction is a complex condition with physical, behavioral, and psychological effects. Comprehensive addiction treatment programs include therapies to address the complex roots of addiction. 

Your treatment plan may include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other behavioral therapies
• Medications
• Individual, family, and group therapy
• Relapse prevention education
• Medical and mental health treatment
• Exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and other holistic therapies
• Aftercare planning

It can be challenging to overcome crank addiction, but having support and treatment makes it possible. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists to explore our treatment and recovery support programs or to schedule an intake appointment.