QUESTIONS, ANSWERS ABOUT METHAMPHETAMINE

Here are some answers to common questions about methamphetamine. The
information is from the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Midwest
High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. More information can be found on the
Internet at NIDA's Web site: http://www.nida.nih.gov

Q. What is methamphetamine?

A. It is a powerfully addictive stimulant that dramatically affects the
central nervous system. It is made in clandestine laboratories with
over-the-counter ingredients.

Q. What are some of the signs of a meth lab in a neighborhood?

A. Labs are marked by unusual, strong odors similar to that of fingernail
polish remover or cat urine. Other clues are large amounts of such products
as cold medicines, antifreeze, drain cleaner, lantern fuel, coffee filters,
batteries, duct tape and clear glass beakers and containers.

Q. What are the short-term effects of meth?

A. The drug alters mood in different ways, depending on how it is taken.
(It can be smoked, snorted, eaten or injected.) The effects can last six to
eight hours. Immediate effects include increased attention and decreased
fatigue, increased activity, decreased appetite, euphoria and rush,
increased respiration and hyperthermia. After the initial rush, there
typically is a state of high agitation that in some people can lead to
violent behavior.

Q. What are long-term effects?

A. They include dependence and addiction psychosis - paranoia,
hallucinations, mood disturbances, repetitive motor activity. They also
include stroke and weight loss. Scientific studies examining the
consequences of long-term meth exposure in animals have raised concerns
about toxic effects on the brain. Increased HIV and hepatitis B and C
transmissions are likely consequences of increased meth abuse, particularly
in people who inject the drug and share needles, syringes and other
equipment.

Additional links: www.nida.nih.gov