ABUSE_MAGAZINE_ID_ Illinois issue | Page 7

ABUSE Magazine Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that dramatically affects the central nervous system. Warren Farmers Exchange 416 Anson Street • Warren, IL 815-745-3615 “We are proud to help our youth exchange todays ABUSE into an ABUSE FREE future!” “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 • Nausea and vomiting • Diarrhea • Occasional episodes of sudden and violent behavior • Intense paranoia 2000 West Monroe • Springfield, IL 217-787-2296 We are proud to keep our kids on the road to a drug free future. • 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: • Increased attention • Decreased fatigue 601 N. Grand E. • Springfield, IL 217-544-5521 “We are proud to be a drug free workplace & proudly support prevention education for our youth.” • Increased activity • Decreased appetite • Euphoria and rush • Increased respiration • Hyperthermia Long-term effects can include: Dependence and addiction psychosis, such as: • Paranoia • Hallucinations • Loss of appetite • Mood disturbances • Increased physical activity levels • Repetitive motor activity • Dilated pupils • Stroke • High blood pressure • Weight loss or anorexia Source: methproject.org Monroe shell • Visual and auditory hallucinations • Excited speech • Shortness of breath Wilkerson’s 3401 Freedom Dr. Springfield, IL