Methamphetamine is a dangerous and highly addictive stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. The drug is imported mostly from Mexico or is manufactured locally in small clandestine laboratories using common household products that contain harmful chemicals combined with the primary ingredient ephedrine or pseudoephedrine found in common cold pills.  This lethal combination has proven to be harmful to not only users of meth but to anyone who comes in contact with the environment in which the drug is manufactured.

Meth Labs are Dangerous and Hazardous

The bi-products of the ingredients used to manufacture meth can be highly explosive and harmful to the environment.  Proper disbandment of meth laboratories requires the skill and knowledge of trained hazardous materials experts.  Anyone who suspects the production or distribution Meth should contact their local law enforcement office.

Who uses Meth?

One of the primary concerns about methamphetamine is that it is a low cost drug that has become easily accessible and popular with some users.  Meth is a central nervous system stimulant drug that initially offers a feeling high energy and euphoria. The following are some reasons that users may choose meth as their drug of choice:

• Dieting or quick weight loss
• Euphoric sensations
• Coping with stress
• Job demands such as late/double shifts and high stress
• Teens or others vulnerable to peer pressure
• An alternative to more expensive drugs

With continued use euphoria and other seemingly positive affects of the drug are replaced with serious depression, drug craving and for some, violent and psychotic behavior.

KNOW THE SIGNS

The following are signs that may be associated with the use or making of methamphetamine.  For more information about methamphetamine or how to get treatment call 1-800-804-0909.

Symptoms of meth use may include:

• High energy or an inability to sleep
• Sweating
• Skin gray or yellowish in color
• Body odor
• Constant scratching or itching of the skin
• Extreme weight loss or anorexia
• Tooth loss or decay (also known as meth mouth)
• Mood swings, irritability, violent behavior or confusion
• Nervousness or paranoia
• Depression

Items used with meth may include:

• Razor blades
• Mirrors and straws
• Syringes
• Heated spoons
• Glass Pipes 
• Surgical rubber tubing
• Aluminum foil

Physical dangers to a user:

• Heart attack, stroke or high blood pressure
• Hypothermia 
• Damage to blood vessel in the brain
• Increased risk of HIV /AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) or Hepatitis B & C
• Evidence of suicidal harm or tendency
• Respiratory complications or coughing
• Health conditions resulting from severe weight loss

Is there a meth lab near you? Common conditions include:

• Drawn Window Shades
• Signs of property neglect
• Visitors at unusual hours
• Strong odors
• Brown patched or no lawn
• High volume of cold medicine and chemical waste materials

Printable Resources

Methamphetamine Fact Sheet

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