Methamphetamine Category: Stimulants

Also called: crystal meth, ice, glass, tina, christal, cristy, yaba, chalk, crank, zip, meth.

How it’s used

Methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant (‘upper’), similar to speed. It is white, odourless and bitter tasting and comes as rocks, crystals or tablets, which you can dissolve in water or alcohol. You can smoke, inject, snort or swallow it.

Short-term effects

Effects can last from 4 to 12 hours, depending on how you take it
You may have an intense rush
Even small amounts make you feel euphoric, aroused, awake, more active
Loss of appetite and rapid breathing
You may have nausea, panic attacks, compulsive repetitive behaviour and jaw clenching

Long-term effects

Tooth decay or ‘meth mouth’
Can cause paranoia, hallucinations and psychosis – when you lose contact with reality
You can become violent and aggressive

Other dangers

Overdose can cause lung, kidney and stomach disorders, stroke, coma and death
You risk HIV and hepatitis if you share needles
Increased sex drive can lead to unsafe sex, with the risk of unplanned pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV
Damage to nerve tissue (neurotoxicity) leading to concentration and memory problems

If you are pregnant

Do not use if you are pregnant as we don’t know enough about the risks to your baby.

Addictive

You can become psychologically and physically addicted, so your body craves it and you feel you can’t cope without it. You can build tolerance so you need to take more to get the same buzz.

Withdrawal

Withdrawals include depression, anxiety and craving for the drug.

How long does it stay in your system?

Meth will show up in a urine test for 2-3 days. (The length of time depends on the test used, the amount you take, if you have other medical conditions and your own metabolism. Please use this figure as a guide only)

What help is available?

Self-help support such as Narcotics Anonymous
Counselling
Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture
Support from your doctor
Residential treatment programmes (clinics)
Aftercare
One to one or group family support
Contact the Drugs Helpline 1800 459 459 to find out about options in your area

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