UP TO 8% OF GRADE 6-12 STUDENTS HAVE TRIED METH

Crystal meth has become a major concern in British Columbia. The use
and production of crystal meth can affect us all.

There are troubling signs that use has increased: a recent survey
involving four B.C. school districts showed that up to eight percent
of students in grades 6-12 report having tried crystal meth in the
2005 school year.

The number of clandestine meth labs in urban settings has increased
sharply over the last few years presenting risks of fire, explosion
and toxic waste.

What is Crystal Meth?

Powerful and highly addictive central nervous system stimulant.

Man-made (synthetic) drug manufactured using ephedrine or
pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in cold medicines, and other
chemicals including acetone, drain cleaner, lithium, iodine, paint
thinner, kerosene, red phorous and muriatic acid.

The drug often has a strong ammonia smell due to incomplete clearing
of solvents or reagents during manufacture.

It is quite bitter-tasting.

Forms: Small glass-like fragments or shiny blue-white rocks of
various size - "ice" - is smoked in a pipe.

White, crystalline powder which easily dissolves in water or alcohol
is used for snorting or injecting.

"Crank", a cheaper form of the drug, is a smelly, yellow powder that
is usually snorted. Meth tablets, a combination of methamphetamine
and caffeine can be brightly coloured and flavoured.

What Makes Crystal Meth "attractive?"

The Euphoria: meth induces strong feelings, including confidence,
increased energy, heightened concentration and alertness and
suppresses fatigue and hunger.

The effect can last from two to 24 hours.

The Cost: A user can get amounts as small as one-tenth of a gram
(known as a point) for as little as $5. A point gives a user a high
that can last up to 24 hours.

The Turnaround: Meth can be illegally produced locally in a short
period of time with a modest investment in equipment and chemicals.

The Availability: Clandestine labs that produce the drug have been
found in homes, garages, motel rooms and even vehicles.

Local production increases the availability of the drug and keeps the
price low, making it an attractive drug to young people.

The Image: Considered trendy and popular as a "club drug," meth has a
strong presence in the rave scene as it increases wakefulness and
energy, alleviating fatigue.