Crystal Meth

CRYSTAL METH & METHAMPHETAMINE (TIK)

Crystal meth and meth are inhaled, smoked or injected. Low doses are in pill form.

Crystal meth is a form of methamphetamine that resembles small fragments of glass or shiny blue-white rocks. On the street, it is known as “ice” “crystal,” “glass” and other names. It is a highly powerful and addictive man-made stimulant that causes aggression and violent or psychotic behavior. Many users report getting addicted from the first time they use it. It is one of the hardest drugs to treat and many die in its grip.

Crystal meth is used by individuals of all ages, but is most commonly used as a “club drug” taken while partying in night clubs or at rave parties. It is a dangerous and potent chemical, and as with all drugs, a poison that acts as a stimulant but then systematically destries the body. Highly addictive, meth burns up the body’s resources, creating a devastating dependence that can only be relieved by taking more of the drug.

Short-term Effects:

• Negative effects can include disturbed sleep patterns
• Hyperactivity
• Nausea
• Delusions of power, increased aggressiveness and irritability
• Can cause decreased hunger and bring on weight loss.
• In higher doses has a greater “rush,” followed by increased agitation and violence
• Insomnia, confusion, hallucinations, anxiety and paranoia.
• Causes convulsions leading to death
• Increased heart rate, blood pressure and body temperatures
• Hallucinations, hyper-excitability, irritability
• Panic and psychosis
• Seizures

Long-term Effects:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure,
• Damage to blood vessels in the brain, leading to strokes or irregular heart beat and cardiovascular (involving the heart and blood vessels) collapse or death.
• Lliver, kidney and lung damage.
• Users may suffer brain damage, including memory impairment and an increasing inability to grasp abstract thoughts. Those who recover are usually subject to memory gaps and extreme mood swings.
• Respiratory (breathing) problems
• Infectious diseases and abscesses
• Malnutrition, weight loss
• Severe tooth decay
• Disorientation, apathy, confused exhaustion
• Strong psychological dependence
• Psychosis
• Depression
• Damage to the brain similar to Alzheimer’s disease, stroke and epilepsy