Methamphetamine—commonly referred to as meth—is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Known for its ability to produce a fast and intense high, meth has grown into one of the most dangerous and widely abused drugs across the globe.

This blog explores everything you need to know about methamphetamine, from what it is and where it originates to its physical and mental effects. By building awareness around this substance, readers can better understand the risks it poses to both individuals and society.

What is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine, or meth, is a stimulant that speeds up the messaging system between the brain and the body. While one FDA-approved form, Desoxyn®, exists to treat conditions like ADHD and obesity in rare cases, illicit meth is predominantly what dominates the streets.

The illegal version of meth may be a pill, powder, or a high-purity form often referred to as “crystal meth,” which looks like shiny glass fragments. The drug is typically smoked, snorted, injected, or ingested to create an immediate and powerful sensation, often described as a “rush” or “high.”

Where Does Meth Come From?

Domestic and International Production

Methamphetamine is manufactured in both domestic and international settings, although Mexican drug trafficking organisations are the primary producers and distributors of the drug throughout the United States, including Hawaii. Within the US, smaller-scale clandestine labs also produce methamphetamine, often using diverted products that contain pseudoephedrine—a common ingredient in cold and allergy medicines.

To combat this issue, the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 regulates the sale of products containing pseudoephedrine, requiring consumers to provide identification and sign a purchase logbook.

Mexican vs. Domestic Production Methods

While US-based producers rely on pseudoephedrine to manufacture meth in small quantities, Mexican producers use alternative precursor chemicals. This difference results in Mexican methamphetamine often being of higher potency and greater availability on the illicit market.

Common Street Names for Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is sold under many colloquial names on the street, often used to disguise its nature. Common names include:

• Batu, Crank, Glass, Ice, Tina, Chalk
• Crystal, Speed, Trash, Shards
• Chicken Feed, Yellow Bam, Poor Man’s Cocaine

These slang terms vary widely by region and community but reflect the widespread use and trade of the substance.

How is Meth Used?

Methamphetamine is used in numerous ways depending on the desired effects, including:

• Smoking: The most common method for crystal meth, producing an intense and rapid high.
• Snorting: Slower onset of effects compared to smoking, but commonly practiced.
• Injecting: Delivers a powerful “rush” as the drug quickly enters the bloodstream.
• Orally: Consumed in pill or powder form for a long-lasting high, though less intense than other methods.

Mental and Physical Effects of Methamphetamine

Mental Effects

Methamphetamine directly affects the brain, inevitably resulting in addiction with repeated use. It stimulates the release of dopamine, creating feelings of pleasure and euphoria but also leading to harmful consequences over time.

Chronic meth use can result in:

• Anxiety
• Paranoia, including sensation hallucinations (like bugs crawling under the skin)
• Auditory and visual hallucinations
• Mood swings, aggression, and suicidal thoughts
• Severe confusion and lasting memory issues

Long-term use has also been associated with serotonin and dopamine damage, which can permanently alter mood and brain function.

Physical Effects

Even small doses of meth can cause significant changes in the body, including:

• Increased wakefulness and physical activity
• Rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and hyperthermia (overheating)
• Decreased appetite, leading to extreme weight loss
• Severe dental damage, commonly referred to as “meth mouth”
• Irregular heartbeat and increased blood pressure

High doses of meth can elevate body temperature to dangerous levels, often causing convulsions or cardiovascular collapse.

The Risk of Overdose

A methamphetamine overdose can be fatal. Taking large quantities of the drug at once may result in:

• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Multi-organ failure due to overheating

Recognising the risk of overdose and seeking immediate medical attention is critical in cases of meth use.

How Does Meth Compare to Other Drugs?

Methamphetamine offers effects similar to those of other stimulants, such as:

• Cocaine
• Prescription stimulants like amphetamines or methylphenidate

Despite these similarities, meth is often regarded as more potent and long-lasting, making it particularly risky for users.

Legal Status in the United States

Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This means it has a high potential for abuse but is occasionally prescribed for strictly limited medical use. Currently, Desoxyn® is the only FDA-approved methamphetamine product in the US and is only prescribed in certain cases to manage obesity or ADHD.

Source: Campus Drug Prevention