Methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant with addiction potential. US survey estimates and overdose statistics describe different aspects of its public-health impact. A survey of use is not a count of use disorders, and a death involving a broad drug category is not necessarily attributable to methamphetamine alone.
Keep the year and definition with each figure
The CDC stimulant overview reports that 2.6 million US residents aged 12 or older reported past-year methamphetamine use in 2023. This is a dated survey estimate, not a current-year count or a diagnosis for those respondents.
NCHS Data Brief 549, published in January 2026, reports the following final US overdose figures for psychostimulants with abuse potential:
| Year | Deaths involving the category | Age-adjusted deaths per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 34,855 | 10.6 |
| 2024 | 28,722 | 8.5 |
The category includes methamphetamine and other stimulants. Deaths may involve multiple drugs, so adding drug-specific counts can double-count deaths. The age-adjusted rate supports population comparisons; it is not an individual's probability of overdose. The decline between these years does not mean use is safe.
Health concerns need an individual assessment
The CDC describes possible harms involving the heart, brain, sleep and mental health. Stimulant emergencies can include seizures, severe overheating and cardiovascular problems. Mixing substances adds uncertainty; a simple dosage category or a diary cannot calculate medical risk.
For a suspected overdose or immediate medical emergency in the US, call 911. Our emergency article summarizes the CDC Stimulant Guide. Do not delay help to identify the substance or complete a record.
Use a record to prepare questions
If useful, note timing, symptoms, sleep, other substances and what you are unsure about. These observations can help organize a conversation with a health professional. They cannot isolate a cause or establish a diagnosis. See how to prepare for an appointment.
For US treatment information, SAMHSA's National Helpline provides confidential, free referrals at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Our treatment and support guide lists questions to ask a program. Referral services and tracking apps do not replace emergency care.
Keep a daily record with Remedy
Record use, no-use days and journal context.
