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What is it?
Methamphetamine
(crystal meth) is a central nervous system stimulant. It is a man-made
drug with a high potential for dependence. Chemically it is closely
related to amphetamine (Speed) but
produces a greater effect.
The drug is also
known by the street names of 'crystal meth', 'crank' 'tina' or 'ice'.
Generally it is a
white odourless and bitter tasting crystalline powder, readily soluble
in water or alcohol, and can also be produced in tablet or powder
form. It can be smoked, injected, snorted or dwallowed.
CRYSTAL - powder form re-crystallized. Similar in appearance to
slivers of glass and a much purer form than powder (much like
Crack is to
Cocaine).
What
does it do?
– Like amphetamine, it
causes increased activity, decreased appetite and general sense of
well-being. Depending on the route of administration, effects will
vary in length of time and duration. As a stimulant, after the
initial rush of energy, the user will feel energised, talkative and
very awake.
Short Term
Effects may include:
Effects can last between 8 and 12 Hours!
As with Crack Cocaine, Smoking Crystal Meth amplifies the
rush, causing a quick and intense burst of energy, which can often
lead to high levels of activity, agitation, sexual desire and
paranoia. Smoking crystal Meth, like crack cocaine, has implications
for the lungs, breathing and can cause other respiratory
complications. Like Crack Cocaine, the initial buzz fades quickly, making
the user feel edgy and lethargic despite feeling very awake.
Smokers tend to want more hits to prevent this comedown, often
leading to excessive use over time, known as a 'Speed Run'.
Some
people can become violent, paranoid, and aggressive and some can become
suicidal. High doses can elevate body temperature to dangerous and
sometimes LETHAL levels , as well as causing convulsions. Like
Ecstasy, remember that dancing all night on methamphetamine
can lead to the same dangers of dehydration and drinking too much
water.
Regular
users may need to increase the dose as they build up a tolerance
to the drug. Some may get psychologically addicted to it and may
feel they cannot have a good time or enjoy themselves without it
or get on a cycle of repeating use to avoid the come down.
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