Methamphetamine
Category: Stimulant
Also know as:
Chalk, Crank, Crazy medicine, Cristy, Crystal Meth, Glass, Go fast, Ice, Shabu, Tina, Yaba, Zip
Summary
Methamphetamine usually takes the form of a white odourless and bitter-tasting crystalline powder, readily soluble in water or alcohol. It is known as Ice when in a crystal-like rock form and Yaba when in tablet form – usually red, orange but sometimes green. Methamphetamine is still relatively rare in Scotland.
How it is taken
Depending on its form, methamphetamine can be swallowed, snorted or injected.
The crystalline form of methamphetamine is called crystal meth and is most commonly mixed with water and injected. This is very dangerous and runs the risk of veins being damaged or clots developing. Sharing needles also increases the risk of catching and spreading viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis C.
Effects
Immediately after smoking or injecting, users experience a rush that lasts only a few minutes. Small amounts of methamphetamine can produce euphoria, wakefulness, increased physical activity, decreased appetite and increased respiration. The user may also experience powerful hallucinations.
Risk
Short term:
The drug can cause disturbing hallucinations and make the user extremely paranoid. One of the nastier and most common hallucinations is ‘speed bugs’ or ‘crank bugs’ where users think bugs are crawling under their skin and go frantic trying to get them out.
Long term:
Regular use is linked to lung and kidney disorders. Coming off the drug can lead to severe depression and suicidal urges.
Legal status
Methamphetamine – often referred to as crystal meth – is illegal to have, give away or sell. As a Class A drug, possession can get you up to seven years in jail and/or an unlimited fine. Supplying someone else, even your friends, can get you up to life imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.
Find local help & support
There’s a wide network of local and community support services to help deal with drug problems.
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