Page 7 | ABUSE Magazine
Photos: www.methproject.org
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Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive stimulant
that dramatically affects the central nervous system.
“Nobody knows for
sure just how many
teens are using the
drug, but a statewide
survey found that
roughly one in 10
high school seniors
have tried meth at
least once.”
Methamphetamine is commonly
known as speed, ice, crystal, crank,
glass and meth. In its smoked form
it is often referred to as ice. It is a
white, odorless, bitter-tasting crystalline powder that easily dissolves in
water or alcohol.
The drug is made easily in clandestine laboratories with relatively inexpensive over-the-counter ingredients. These factors combine to make
methamphetamine a drug with high
potential for widespread abuse.
Methamphetamine’s chemical structure is similar to that of amphetamine, but it has more pronounced
effects on the central nervous system. Like amphetamine, it causes increased activity, decreased appetite,
and a general sense of well-being.
The effects of methamphetamine
can last 6 to 8 hours. After the initial
“rush” or “flash,” there is typically a
state of high agitation that in some
individuals can lead to violent behavior.
Methamphetamine users can be
identified by:
• Signs of agitation
• Excited speech
• Loss of appetite
• Increased physical activity levels
• Dilated pupils
• High blood pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Occasional episodes of sudden and
violent behavior
• Intense paranoia
• Visual and auditory hallucinations
• Bouts of insomnia
• A tendency to compulsively clean
and groom and repetitively sort and
disassemble objects, such as cars and
other mechanical devices
Short-term effects can include:
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•
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Increased attention
Decreased fatigue
Increased activity
Decreased appetite
Euphoria and rush
Increased respiration
Hyperthermia
Long-term effects can include:
Dependence and addiction psychosis, such as:
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Paranoia
Hallucinations
Mood disturbances
Repetitive motor activity
Stroke
Weight loss or anorexia