Maine is witnessing a spike in methamphetamine-related incidents as fentanyl’s popularity wanes, experts say. A recent surge in meth use has left Portland overwhelmed, with patients being treated for opioid addiction skipping prescription refills and therapy appointments.
Counselors at Spurwink mental health clinic in Portland noticed their patients were relapsing on meth without showing typical signs of fentanyl use. Instead, those who reappeared displayed erratic behavior, including rapid-fire chatter and dilated pupils.
The rise of meth is attributed to its affordability and availability, as fentanyl prices have increased due to production constraints. Unlike opioids, there are no medications approved for treating meth addiction, leaving responders with limited tools to combat the crisis.
“A war” has been declared by local healthcare workers, who are struggling to cope with the rapid spread of methamphetamine use. As deaths from opioids continue to decline, experts warn that meth’s devastating effects, including psychotic breaks and explosive violence, pose a significant threat to communities nationwide.
Source: https://www.ncja.org/crimeandjusticenews/maine-sees-spike-in-meth-incidents-as-fentanyl-recedes