1. Methamphetamine Shannon Sweigart

2. What it is • Meth-in the drug class of stimulants • Quickens mental and physical processes • Made of several deadly chemicals small error or impure ingredients will kill • Includes gasoline, drain cleaner, paint thinner, propane, battery acid • Made in dirty, illegal labs • Highly flammable/explodes

3. Stops brain from receiving messages Brain sends out more messages Nervous system and body overwhelmed with stimuli Increases dopamine which controls Thinking Emotions *Eventually destroys dopamine receptors* What it does

4. Also called Cristy Chalk Go-fast Zip Crank Croak Scooby snax Tweek All illusions of being Larger than life Daring Wise Reckless Crazy happy Capable of extreme strength Names + Feelings

5. Ways to Use it

6. Meth mouth User loses teeth quickly Tooth decay Teeth grinding Long-Term Fatal kidney and/or lung disorders Brain damage Severe depression Hallucinations Disorganized life style WITHDRAWAL Physical Consequences

7. Legal Consequences • Illegal to have unless licensed MD-not commonly used medicinally • Schedule II drug, high risk of dependence and abuse • 5-10 years in federal prison for carrying enough to sell • Small amount for personal use=$10,000 fine • Criminal record=hard to get job or federal benefits

8. Effects on Others • Tears families apart • Meth babies have defects/shaking fits/cry nonstop • Users prone to crime/car accidents • Hazardous wastes kill animals/environment • Costs an average of $100 billion per year in the US

9. Sources • Methamphetamine: Speed Kills by Jay Schleifer at ACHS library 4/ • When Someone you Love is Addicted by Jessica Hanan ACHS Library 4/28/08 • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methamphetamine#Health_issues ACHS Library 4/28/08