Sue Brown, Extension Educator
Marilyn Fox, Extension Educator
University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension
Methamphetamine is a powerful addictive synthetic drug with a high potential for drug abuse and dependence. Meth is not the biker drug it was in the 1950’s.
Today’s meth is much stronger and contains more harsh chemicals. Many of its ingredients are poisonous. Ingredients include over-the-counter drugs containing pseudoephedrine, iodine, anhydrous ammonia, starter fluid, de-icer, drain cleaner, lithium batteries and muriatic/hydrochloric acid
If you hear your child or others mention speed, chalk, crystal, crank, glass or ice, they might be referring to one of meth’s many street names. Meth can be injected, snorted, smoked, or taken orally. The method of use varies the time needed for the user to get high. YABA, a methamphetamine tablet, has been appearing in the United States. These tablets, sometimes flavored (grape, orange or vanilla), taste like candy and are obviously marketed to a young audience.
The number of high school students using meth continues to rise. According to the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey of 2003, 6.3 % of high school students surveyed in Nebraska have used meth. Females make up a higher percentage of users. Young girls are drawn to meth for its ability to help them lose weight fast.
Short term effects of meth use include paranoia, loss of appetite, severe weight loss, aggressive behavior, and acne or body sores. These symptoms should raise a red flag if exhibited in any individual. Long term effects can be tooth decay, hair loss, depression, psychotic behavior, brain damage, stroke and even death.
Want to help protect your family as well as your neighbors and community from dangers associated with meth? Your local Cooperative Extension office has materials about meth which include a NebFact, ‘Fighting Methamphetamine in Nebraska: Strategies for Individuals and Communities’. This NebFact lists helpful ideas for assessing the situation and identifying a plan.
Don’t simply educate your family on the hazards of using meth: instead help protect them for the many dangers posed by meth use and production. This week get the materials from your local Extension Office to discuss with your child. Then log on to unlforfamilies.unl.edu, click on TIPS and then click on Feedback and let us know what you think.
Written by: Marilyn Fox, Extension Educator and Sue Brown, Extension Educator
