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Dr Joseph M Carver, PhD

Off Crystal Meth But Still Foggy

Reader’s Question

Q:

I’m sorry to bother you but I came across your web site. I did crystal meth for 2 years on and off and when I used to come down the next few days were very foggy and cloudy, but this would usually go away. But after the last 2 times I used the foggy stoned feeling mind never went away. I have been clean for 14 months now and the feeling never went away. I don’t feel like this at all times but it is the basis of the day. I am wondering if what I am experiencing is normal and will decrease? It feels better if I sleep more than 10 hours… I heard that it takes 18 to 24 months for your brain to function properly. I am also taking L-Tyrosine pills that I bought at the drug store, and Prozac. I was wondering if you have any advice for me. Thank you.

Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

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A:

Crystal Meth does some intense things to the brain’s neurotransmitter system. For this reason, I would offer a couple of comments. First, you should consult your physician who prescribed the Prozac. The physician is in the best position to understand the foggy/cloudy sense you are experiencing. Second, if your physician is not a psychiatrist, a consultation with a psychiatrist would be next. While physicians prescribe antidepressants like Prozac, they often do so at a very low dose, often at an ineffective dose. Third, the combination of Prozac and L-Tyrosine may be producing problems. I would discontinue the L-Tyrosine as it is the unregulated component and may actually be conflicting with your prescription medication. Overall, obtaining a medical opinion about your situation is best. You may be experiencing a type of depression that is being minimally treated with your Prozac, and that’s why you are sleeping 10+ hours a day. I’d also read articles on Depression to check for other symptoms. Keep in mind that a depressive disorder often follows detoxification.