how long does meth stay in your system

How Long Does Meth Stay In Your System?

Last Updated: Fri, January 19, 2024

If you are ready to get rid of meth from your body, you may be wondering, “How long does meth stay in your system?”.

In this article, we will talk about the half-life of meth, how long does meth stay in your system, and the factors affecting how long does meth stay in your system. 

What Is the Half-Life of Meth?

The FDA-approved form of methamphetamine can be used legally by many people. Prescription meth can be used to treat issues such as ADHD.

On the other hand, many people use meth illegally. Illegal meth is often used as a recreational drug. This can lead to addiction.

In addition, both the short-term and long-term effects of illegal meth can seriously affect your mental and physical health. The effects can even extend to your relationships and finances. 

The half-life of meth lasts for an average of 10 hours. This means it takes about 10 hours for half of the ingested meth to be metabolized and eliminated from one’s bloodstream. 

When taken orally, meth peaks in the human bloodstream between 2.6 and 3.6 hours. 

On the other hand, when taken intravenously, the elimination half-life of meth lasts for about 12 hours.

How Long Does Meth Stay In Your System? 

When compared to other drugs, meth’s effects relatively last longer. The feel-good feeling usually lasts for six to 12 hours. Sometimes, it can last for up to 24 hours.

The majority of meth users experience the following stages of intoxication before crashing:

●      The Rush: This occurs after your first had meth. The rush typically ends in five minutes. In some cases, the rush can last for up to 30 minutes. 

●      The High: Also known as the shoulder, this stage usually lasts for four to 16 hours.

●      The Binge: During this stage, people often try to keep their high by injecting or smoking more meth. This stage can binge can last between three to 15 days. During this time, users barely sleep or eat. 

●      Tweaking: This stage occurs when meth can no longer give people a high. Users start tweaking, accompanied by symptoms such as paranoia. This phase can last for up to 14 days. 

So how long does meth stay in your system? The answer depends on which part of the body the substance is. 

Here’s how long does meth stay in your system depending on its location: 

Blood 

Meth can be detected in one’s blood within one to two hours after use. It can be detected for up to three days after the last dose.

Urine 

Meth can be detected in one’s urine two to five hours after use. It can be detected for up to seven days after the last dose.

Saliva 

Meth can be detected in one’s saliva 10 minutes after use. It can be detected for up to four days after the last dose.

Hair 

Meth can be detected in one’s hair for up to 90 days after the last dose.

Factors Affecting How Long Does Meth Stay In Your System 

The answer to “How long does meth stay in your system?” also depends on the following factors: 

1.     Method of Taking 

How you take meth affects how long it can be detected. For instance, meth will stay in your body longer if you inject it than if you take it orally. 

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2.     Frequency of Use and Amount 

How often you use and the dose you take also affects how long does meth stay in your system. 

For instance, meth will stay in your urine for about 24 hours if you ingest a single dose. On the other hand, meth can stay in your urine for two to four days if you frequently use it. 

3.     Presence of Other Substances 

Drinking alcohol or using other drugs with methamphetamine affects how fast your body metabolizes meth. Your liver’s ability to metabolize meth efficiently decreases when you combine it with alcohol or other drugs.  

4.     Overall Health 

Your body likely eliminates meth quickly when you’re in good health. If you have health issues, meth will likely stay longer in your system. 

5.     Age 

The younger you are, the quicker your body gets rid of substances and toxins such as meth. 

Recovering from Meth Addiction 

If you're concerned about having meth in your body, consult a medical professional. If you frequently and/or heavily use meth, it’s best to detox from the substance with the help of a professional.

Recovering won’t be easy, but having professional help will help you get through it. 

In addition, a formerly regular and heavy meth user will have to commit to an extensive rehabilitation program. Meth is an addictive drug and heavy, regular users need all the help they can get. 

Conclusion 

if you or your loved one is suffering from having too much meth in your system, ask for help. Meth might be an addictive substance, but you can overcome it with proper treatment, the right support system, and a sobriety app

I Am Sober is a free app that helps you get some control back in your life.

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