Meth Abuse

Meth abuse or Methamphetamine is a widely abused drug in the country today. Methamphetamine of Meth is a very powerful drug stimulant drug. There are several ways meth can be used including injection, smoking, snorting, or swalling it. There is a sense of euphoria when the drug is introduced to the system. Many people use Methamphetamine with other types of drugs.

Meth is a long lasting drug that is toxic to the nervous system specifically the nerve terminals. Meth is an odorless, bitter tasting, white powdery substance. Methamphetamine enables a person to stay awake for extended periods of time. The drug will also increase the user's heart rate and can create an irregular heat beat. Other physical changes include increased blood pressure and body temperature.

Meth Labs

Because methamphetamine or meth is made from readily available ingredients some people try to make the powerful drug at home. This creates a dangerous situation for not only those trying to manufacture the drug, but those anywhere nearby. One of the street names for meth is "stove top" because it can be made at home. Meth is also known as crank or ice. There is no single identification item that proves that meth is being produced in a particular location. However here are some things to look for:

• Propane bottles with blue or green valves
• Small holes in walls
• Regular household chemicals and cat litter in unusual places
• Picnic coolers that have been modified

Meth labs can also be constructed in a car, motor home or shed. If you believe you have stumbled on a meth lab call the local police department they will tell you what to do.

Meth Abuse in Schools

While the rate of stimulant abuse is probably less than 5% of the students in any given school it is important to make sure that your child does not fall into that category. It is important to understand that teens who use non-medical stimulants are more likely to have used other types of illicit drugs. It is also important to know that teens that use stimulants are more likely to engage in other types of delinquent behavior. Another disturbing fact is that more than 20% teens who used stimulants experience major depressive episodes nearly 3 times more than teens who don’t use stimulants. If you suspect your teen in using Methamphetamines you can purchase a simple drug test that will help you determine if your teen is using them.