Meth

The History Of Methamphetamine

hetamine (Meth) is a synthetic stimulant, derived from ephedrine, which affects the central nervous system. Its parent drug is amphetamine. Originally, meth was frequently used to treat obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It was commonly known and sold under the name Methedrine. In World War II, both the Allies and Axis powers used it to keep soldiers awake. It was outlawed in the United States in 1970, but by then use dramatically increased. Furthermore, it can be made from household ingredients and ephedrine or pseudoephedrine are commonly found in over-the-counter cold medications. According to PBS, home meth labs began spreading in the 1980s and it was not until the mid-1980s that the DEA moved to require companies to track sales and import records.

As meth is highly addictive, it is now rarely prescribed in legal forms in the United States. Many countries have banned its use completely, which means medical use is not allowed under any circumstances. In the United States, it is illegal unless prescribed at the federal level, while medicinal enforcement varies by jurisdiction. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), meth is significantly more toxic than amphetamine. Furthermore, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “…much greater amounts of the drug get into the brain” and “It also had longer-lasting and more harmful effects on the central nervous system.” From a 2017 government study, 964,000 people had a meth use disorder which was up from 684,000 in 2016. Unfortunately, meth use is having a resurgence in the United States.

Meth carries a high risk of addiction even when used legally. Unfortunately, it is most frequently now used illegally. There is a stigma around most drug use, and even greater for drugs like meth. This makes it difficult to find information or medical resources, as well as seeking treatment. It’s important for drug rehab centers to help clients and their loved ones to know there is no shame in seeking treatment.

What Does Meth Look Like?

Meth comes in different forms. Smoking, injecting, swallowing, and snorting meth are all common methods. According to NIDA, meth is often a white, bitter-tasting powder or pill. Crystal methamphetamine (or crystal meth) looks like a glass fragment or a shiny, bluish-white rock. It is possible, and often likely, that meth used illegally will be cut with other substances. This may frequently be dangerous opioids, including fentanyl. While meth on its own is dangerous, this significantly increases the danger and it won’t be clear it’s cut with something else.

Liquid meth is becoming increasingly common, particularly as it is easier to hide and transport. According to the DEA, it is the number one drug now smuggled across the border. Once it has been transported, liquid meth is typically then converted into crystals. In any form found on the street, meth is incredibly toxic. Liquid meth is particularly dangerous to consume, with most drug dealers intending to convert it once it has reached its destination.