AMPHETAMINES/METHAMPHETAMINES

There are a variety of amphetamines, but the one type that is of concern is methamphetamine (Meth).  Also known as "crystal," "crank," or "speed," it is one of the most popular drugs of abuse.  This drug usually comes in the form of a white powder, but can be found in different colors depending on the way it is manufactured.  Most methamphetamines are manufactured in clandestine labs.  Also called "Go-Fast," methamphetamines can be snorted, but are usually ingested.  It causes a very intense rush for about thirty minutes, but the user will generally stay awake anywhere from 3 hours to 24 hours.  During this time, most users can neither eat nor sleep.  Most regular users also become very paranoid, creating even more problems.

Methods of Abuse and Effects

Although  generally found in a pill or capsule form, the drug methamphetamine is also available in liquid form which is then injected.  The consumption of methamphetamines results in a temporary sense of exhilaration, hyperactivity, loss of appetite, insomnia, extreme amounts of energy and talkativeness.  The use of methamphetamines produces physical symptoms such as dilated pupils, excessive sweating and body tremors, bad breath, dry mouth and lips, itchy nose and dizziness.  The abusive effects of methamphetamine can also produce symptoms of irritability, panic, anxiety, aggressive behavior and hallucinations.  All of the preceding effects are generally intensified when the user of methamphetamine injects them intravenously.  People who take large amounts of methamphetamines are commonly known as "Speed Freaks."

Other Dangers

Because of the cumulative effects of methamphetamines, chronic users have the tendency to take the drug (known as UPPERS) in the morning hours to get them going, and then take depressants (known as DOWNERS) in the evening to help them relax and get to sleep.  This cycle of abuse can interfere with the normal bodily processes and lead to physical and mental illness.  Body tolerance develops rapidly to the amount of methamphetamine ingested and it takes increasingly larger doses to achieve the desired effects.  The drug culture has coined a phrase:  "Speed Kills."  Unfortunately, but inevitably, methamphetamine does kill.

 

 

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