What is Meth?

Methamphetamine: amphetamine used in the form of a crystalline hydrochloride; used as a stimulant to the nervous system. The drug works directly on the brain and spinal cord by interfering with normal neurotransmission. Neurotransmitters are chemical substances naturally produced within nerve cells used to communicate with each other and send messages to influence and regulate our thinking and all other systems throughout the body. It is illegally produced and sold in pill form, capsules, powder and chunks. It can be smoked, taken intranasal (snorted), injected intravenously or ingested orally.

What ingredients are used to make Meth?

Over-the-counter cold and asthma medications containing ephedrine or pseudo ephedrine, red phosphorous, hydrochloric acid, drain cleaner, battery acid, lye, lantern fuel, anhydrous ammonia, and antifreeze.

What problems does Meth pose to our community?

Automobile accidents; explosions and fires triggered by the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine; environmental contamination; increased criminal activity, including domestic violence; emergency room and other medical costs; spread of infectious disease, including HIV, AIDS and hepatitis; and lost worker productivity. Economic costs also fall on governments, which must allocate additional resources for social services and law enforcement. Children are exposed to extremely dangerous chemicals and neglected by parents whose number 1 priority has become Meth. City and country roads are littered with dangerous materials tossed from "mobile" Meth labs, which are full of hazardous chemicals and are often times explosive.

What are the dangers of producing Meth?

Meth trafficking and production are different than other drugs because they are dangerous from start to finish. The reckless practices of the untrained people who manufacture it in clandestine labs result in explosions and fires that injure or kill not only the people and families involved, but also law enforcement or firemen who respond. Any number of solvents, precursors and hazardous agents are found in unmarked containers at these sites. These potent chemicals can enter the central nervous system and cause neural damage, effect the liver and kidneys, and burn or irritate the skin, eyes and nose. Environmental damage is another consequence of these reckless actions, and violence is often a part of the process as well. Each pound of Meth produced leaves behind five or six pounds of toxic waste. Meth cooks often pour leftover chemicals and byproduct sludge down drains in nearby plumbing, storm drains, or directly onto the ground.