Meth's devastating effects: Before and after

Methamphetamine is an illegal drug that acts as a central nervous system stimulant. Not only is the drug highly addictive, people quickly build a tolerance to it, leading them to use more and more of the substance.

Side effects of using meth include paranoia, hallucinations and repetitive behavior, according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. People can also have delusions of parasites or insects crawling under the skin which leads them to scratch themselves. Long-term use of meth, high dosages, or both can cause psychosis and paranoia. In some cases, it can even lead to stroke and death.

Rehabs.com, a nationwide directory of rehabilitation centers, compiled mug shots of methamphetamine addicts to show how the progression of drug abuse impacted their looks over a relatively short period of time.

Keep clicking to see the devastating effects.

Angelic at age 31 (left) and 34.

Credit: Rehabs.com