Play & Party Drug: Crystal Meth
Crystal meth is an intensive stimulant with disinhibitory
qualities. Crystal meth is one street form of the drug,
methamphetamine hydrochloride, which comes in clear, chunky
crystals, which are then inhaled or smoked. It can be easily
produced in small, clandestine labs, sometimes in a kitchen or
bathroom, by mixing a cocktail of about 15 substances, mostly
pseudoephedrine (a cold remedy), red phosphorous and iodine, but
also including ammonia, paint thinner, ether, Drano and the
lithium from batteries. This has made crystal meth a widespread
problem in the United States and many people have found
themselves addicted to this powerful drug.
It is known by many names such as "ice," "speed," "meth,"
"crank," "glass," and others but often has the same disastrous
results on the individual taking the drug. It is a white powder
that tastes bitter but is odorless in its powdered form. The
drug can be snorted, smoked, injected or swallowed to deliver
the high.
According to mental health workers, police and research
scientists, the people who use crystal meth include: