WHAT IS METH?

Meth is a viciously addictive synthetic stimulant that affects the pleasure centers of the brain. In Utah, the most likely users of meth are childbearing-age women. Meth is popular with younger age groups, with the majority of users under the age of 35. Over 50 percent of all meth users begin between the ages of 12 and 19.


Meth was developed early last century from its parent drug, amphetamine, and has been used legitimately for treatments such as nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers. Amphetamine (meth's parent drug) was widely distributed to army personnel during World War II. Amphetamine-laced chocolate was routinely given to German soldiers, and it is reported that from 1942 to 1945, Adolf Hitler received daily meth injections to treat depression and fatigue. Some attribute his Parkinson's-like symptoms to use of this drug. Today, meth is legally available only by prescription, with very limited medical applications for treatment of ailments such as narcolepsy (a sleep disorder), attention deficit disorders, and obesity. Many medical authorities have largely discontinued use of meth for therapeutic purposes.

Truckers have used the drug for long-haul routes, to keep from falling asleep. People have used it for weight control, mild depression or as a study aid. Athletes have used it to perform better and train longer. Current forms of meth, made with ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, are far more potent than earlier versions of the drug. It is even stronger than crack cocaine, and considered more addictive than heroin. Today, outside of a doctor's prescription, meth is considered a controlled substance that is illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Utah and Federal law.

In addition to "meth," the drug is also known by dozens of nicknames, including "speed," "chalk," "ice," "crystal," "glass," "crank," "yaba," "fire," "tina," and "tweak."