Methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a highly addictive and dangerous drug with a strong potential for abuse and dependence. It produces a rapid and intense high that makes the user feel energetic, powerful and happy. It can also cause the user to become sexually aroused, leading to the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. The drug is usually smoked, but may also be snorted, swallowed or injected.
Using meth can result in the following harmful effects on the body:
- Malnutrition and extreme weight loss
- Damage to the brain that can lead to symptoms that mimic Parkinson’s disease
- Damage to blood vessels that can lead to heart failure and stroke
- Respiratory problems
The initial pleasurable highs that meth use brings are often followed by disastrous consequences. The user quickly becomes immune to these highs (sometimes after two days’ use), and feels depressed. He or she then begins to crave meth and obtaining it becomes the most important thing in life.
Meth users hurt more than just themselves. The psychological effects of the drug can lead to child neglect, child and spouse abuse, and violent outbursts that harm the whole family.
The ingredients needed to make meth are readily found in pharmacies, hardware stores and supermarkets. There are thousands of recipes available on the Internet. For this reason, London Drugs has taken the initiative to review larger-than-normal sales of products containing pseudoephedrine, one of the ingredients of crystal meth. We have also prepared an informative and helpful brochure - Methamphetamine Abuse is Everyone’s Problem - that outlines the hazards of meth use, the dangers inherent in its manufacture, and how to spot a meth lab in your neighbourhood. You can find this brochure at your London Drugs pharmacy.