DRUGS: THERE'S NOTHING NEW ABOUT METH

Methamphetamine Has a Longer History Than Its Current Status As A
Leading Street Drug Would Suggest.

Methamphetamine was first synthesized in Japan in 1919, and its first
widespread use took place during the Second World War.

Both the Allies and the Axis forces gave methamphetamines to their
soldiers to keep them alert and energetic for longer periods of time.

In the 1950s, doctors prescribed it for a variety of medical problems,
including alcoholism, obesity, narcolepsy, and certain forms of depression.

It remains available, including in the United States, as a
prescription medication for a few illnesses. Called Desoxyn, the drug
is used in small doses as a treatment for obesity and attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder.

The criminal use of methamphetamine, and its secret manufacture by
criminals, began in North America in the 1960s, and increased in the
1980s.

Like heroin and cocaine, it can be taken in a wide variety of ways,
including smoking, injecting, and swallowing in pill form.

Longterm meth use takes a toll on the body. A depressed immune system,
acne, and teeth-grinding are typical side effects.

"Meth-mouth," in which a victim's teeth rot out within a few years of
heavy use, is also becoming well known. The exact cause isn't known,
although it's thought that the acids and byproducts found in
clandestinely produced meth may be eating the enamel off addicts'
teeth as they smoke it.

Abusers of the drug also suffer from psychological problems,
especially paranoia while they take the drug. Psychotic episodes and
delusions are not uncommon. The fact that an addict can go days
without sleeping while on a meth binge doesn't help.

Unlike cocaine or heroin, meth doesn't have to be grown in a distant
country and smuggled into Canada. Labs have been found in urban areas
of the country, including in Langley.

The labs often contain hazardous chemicals and acids, and have to be
dealt with by hazardous materials crews when discovered.

Meth is one of the cheapest drugs. A single dose of meth, called a
point, can cost as little as $10 in the Lower Mainland. Addicts use
several points a day.