Also known as crystal meth, base, crank, oxblood, paste, whiz, zest, shabu, glass, shard, rev, wax, tweak, P, Tina, fire, skates
Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug. It can have a crystalline appearance, which is why it is often called “crystal” or “ice”. It can also come in a white or off-white powder, often called “speed”. Less often, it is produced as a brown oily substance known as “base” or liquid. It is made with pharmaceutical drugs and household chemicals, and may include unknown or harmful ingredients.
Methamphetamine is usually smoked but it can be snorted, injected or swallowed. In Australia, crystal methamphetamine is more pure, potent and addictive than “speed” or “base”.
Effects of methamphetamine
Effects depend on the person (age, weight, size, health and tolerance), as well as the strength, the amount used, and if it is used with other drugs, including alcohol. When smoking (effects are felt immediately), injecting (15 to 30 seconds), snorting (3 to 5 minutes), swallowing (15 to 20 minutes). As it wears off, you may experience “comedown” effects, which can last 2 to 3 days.
Short-term effects, both desired and undesired, may include…
Long-term effects may include…
Effects from overdosing: chest pain, hot and flushed skin, irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, fits or seizures, extreme agitation and confusion, lack of co-ordination, severe headache and stomach pain, unconscious, stroke, kidney damage, heart attack or death.
If a person is experiencing an overdose or is unresponsive call 000 for an ambulance. If unconscious, put them in the recovery position. If not breathing, start CPR. Paramedics won’t involve police unless the person is a danger to themselves or others.
How long does methamphetamine stay in your system?
Depends on use and person. Generally, effects last 6 to 12 hours, or longer. It can be detected in saliva 2 to 4 days, in urine 3 to 5 days, in blood up to 3 days and in hair up to 3 months.
There is no safe way to use methamphetamine. There will always be a health risk. The only way to be safe is not to use. If you choose to use, the following will help reduce risk:
Before: take a friend and tell them what you plan on using, plan how to get home (to avoid driving under the influence), use new or clean equipment. Injecting is not recommended, though if choosing to inject, get your own clean, sharp syringe and find a clean location. Boil smoking equipment in water to clean.
During: go slow, start with a low dose then wait an hour to see effects before having a bit more, know and keep to your limits. Safely dispose of syringes.
Avoid: using methamphetamine with other drugs, including alcohol, using too much or too often, needle or equipment sharing. While using don’t be alone, don’t drive or do risky activities or be responsible for the care of others.
It may be a problem if you agree with any of these statements:
It is illegal to use, possess, make or sell methamphetamines in Australia. It is also illegal to possess any implement for using methamphetamine (such as a pipe). In Queensland, it is illegal to possess needles or syringes if they are not disposed of safely and therefore pose a risk to others.
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