GETTING UP TO SPEED

The latest trends in drug-taking are cause for concern - particularly the
dabbling and experimenting that is occurring among adolescents ("Drug
nation: dabblers in meteoric rise", Herald, June 14).

Marijuana, ecstasy and heroin have all had quite large increases. However,
one drug which is also popular but which has not attracted much attention
is speed.

Regarded by most as safer than heroin because it is less addictive and
doesn't have the same negative image, it still causes havoc in the lives of
chronic users and their families.

Calls to our service have more than doubled in the past 12 months because
of the problems associated with speed use. Aggression and mood swings are
common side effects. It is particularly popular among young females because
of its perceived weight loss benefits.

It is time we talked more about the negative consequences and outcomes of
using these drugs rather than trying to insist they just say no.

Tony Trimingham
Family Drug Support
Willoughby
June 14