Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that dramatically affects the central nervous system. The drug is easily made in clandestine laboratories with relatively inexpensive over-the-counter ingredients. These factors combine to mark methamphetamine as a drug with high potential for widespread abuse.
Methamphetamine is commonly known by a variety of street names including “ chalk”, “speed”, meth” and “ice” , “crystal” “crank” and “glass” in its smoked form. It is a white, odorless, bitter tasting crystalline powder that easily dissolves in water or alcohol.
Methamphetamine’s chemical structure is similar to that of amphetamine, but it has more pronounced effects on the central nervous system. Like amphetamine, it causes increased activity, decreased appetite, and a general sense of well-being. The effects of methamphetamine can last 8-10 hours, with the drug still present in the body 12 hours later. After the initial “rush” there is typically a state of high agitation that in some individuals can lead to violent behavior.
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II stimulant, which means it has high potential for abuse and is available legally only through a prescription that cannot be refilled. There are a few accepted medical reasons for its use, such as treatment of narcolepsy, attention deficit disorder, and, for short term, obesity; but these medical uses are limited.
