Expert: Crystal - 6/3/2007

Question
QUESTION: I have a friend who wants to get off meth/speed soon. The problem is he can't take time off work so rehab is out. He doesn't have a doctor so he can't talk to one. Is there a special diet, or supplement, or even a prescription he can take? He works a lot and is sometimes on call so I would like to know something to make this easy on him he's been on it for about 3-4 yrs and I'm proud of him for doing this. Thank you very much for your time.     Lisa

ANSWER: Lisa,

As long as he is not taking anything else he should be ok, but an important factor to take into consideration is whether or not he is using everyday and whether or not he can endure not being on it. The main thing about not being on meth/speed is how it has affected the brain while he was using. He will experience things like sleepiness,anxiety and some lack of concentration,plus he may experience lack of sleep but there are teas out there that will help with that. I would give him vitamins to build up his nutritional intake and to boost the energy level, make sure he is eating six small and healthy meals a day and encourage him to read anything that really interests him so that it will stimulate the brain and help boost the regrowth. It takes up to two years to get the full function back and then to really stimulate the growth after that he should learn as much as he can stand, it doesn't matter what he is learning, it will stimulate the growth function and help him to build up his concentration. As for medications, the only thing I would really suggest would be maybe anti-depressants because one of the downfalls of coming off of this is depression. But remember that I am not an MD.
You should be very proud of him for taking this step because it is a HUGE step,especially with meth. Good luck to both of you and let me know how it goes.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Crystal thank you for responding so quickly. Something you said reminded me of something. He has to smoke(meth)maybe 3-5 times a day just to keep going, should he go cold turkey or cut down? Also, what vitamins in particular should he be on and when should he start them? Can you tell I'm worried about him? (smile)  Thank you again for your advice, this is a good thing your doing. Lisa

Answer
Lisa,
If he wants to stop how he does it is up to you two. If you can plan it on the weekend or a time when he is off for a few days would be best and I would start taking the vitamins after he feels better. Also, it would be beneficial to try just a multi vitamin as long as he is not sensitive or allergic to anything. I can tell you are worried and I understand how this can affect both of you.
You need to make sure he can handle it and if he has any signs or symptoms I would take him to an ER immediately, although that is not usually the case.
As with any substance addiction, use caution.
Take care.
Crystal