DEMON DRUG OFTEN USED LEGALLY

The Dec. 16 writer's concerns regarding the consequences of "legalizing"
methamphetamine are certainly understandable; however, it should be pointed
out that methamphetamine is "already" legal. It is routinely prescribed
under trade names such as Desoxyn by physicians for a number of medical
conditions. Many productive members of society take this drug every day
without suffering serious consequences. President John F. Kennedy, who was
given regular injections of methamphetamine while he was in the White
House, is but one of the more well-known examples.

I mention this to point out that while there are very real dangers
associated with inappropriate use and abuse of this drug, alarmist claims
and reporting on this subject do not serve to improve the situation.
Amphetamines have been used and abused in this country for 70 years and
like most drugs and medications have both benefited and harmed society. Let
us not fall prey to a hysterical sense that we are facing a "new demon
drug" when in fact the realities are far more complex.

Peter Vanderkloot

New York, N.Y.