What is Crystal Meth?

Crystal Meth is one of the names used for methamphetamine.

Methamphetamine derives from the family of drugs called amphetamines, which is a powerful stimulant that stimulates the central nervous system.

The drug can be made in clandestine laboratories with available over the counter ingredients.

What does crystal meth look like?

Crystal meth is a clear, colourless, odourless substance that has the appearance of crystals or broken glass, in contrast to methamphetamine which is a white powder.

What is crystal meth made of?

Some of the common ingredients used to make crystal meth can be found at the over the counter drug store. These ingredients includes cold medication containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, lye, hydrochloric acid, red phosphorous, drain cleaner, battery acid, , lantern fuel, and antifreeze.

These ingredients cost a few hundred dollars and can produce products worth thousands of dollars.

Where is crystal meth manufactured?

It is made in clandestine labs. These clandestine crystal meth labs can be found anywhere from rural apartment to the back of a car. 

What are the effects of crystal Meth?

There are numerous effects associated with the use of crystal meth. They can be both long term effects and

Short term effects:

1. Dilated pupils
2. Decreased fatigue
3. Increased activity
4. insomnia
5. Euphoria
6. Increased attention
7. Euphoric rush or "flash"
8. Increased respiration
9. Decreased appetite
10. Diarrhea, nausea
11. Irregular heart beat
12. Increased body temperature
13. Jaw clenching
14. tremors
15. Increases libido
16. Sexual climax problems
Long term crystal meth side effects may include:
1. Psychosis and Paranoia
2. Hallucinations  and Delusions
3. Obsessive compulsive behavior
4. Damage to brain
5. Memory loss
6. Aggressive or Violent behavior
7. Meth mouth
8. Anorexia
9. Mood instability

Who uses crystal meth?

Surveys have shown that crystal meth is used mostly by the young population and is very rampant at clubs and other social parties that are mostly attended by young people.

The drug is also a popular choice for road dwellers and "runaways" living on the streets.  Women also are popular candidates than men when comparing genders.

What is crystal meth treatment?

Crystal meth addiction can be successfully treated through rehab. Drug treatment and rehab has reconstructed thousands of lives.

The main goal of meth rehab is to help the addict learn how to live without using drugs. Most rehab programs today include a medical, psychological as well as the 12-step component.

Do these crystal meth treatment program work?

Although these programs do work, during the recovery process there is a period where the patients feel depressed.

Recovering addicts thus feel life without the meth is not comforting and thus will power alone do not work well.

There is only a ten percent chance that recovering addicts will remain sober.