Crystal meth is an inexpensive, highly-addictive drug that is becoming popular among our youth. The addictive qualities and the high produced are similar to or stronger than cocaine.
The effects of a high dose are extreme and can be deadly:
"High doses of amphetamines can cause rupture of blood vessels in the brain, heart failure, hyperthermia (extremely high fever), seizures, coma, and death."
Source: AADAC - Amphetamines: Beyond the ABCs
Crystal meth is not someone else's problem. It's here, now, in our communities, our schools and sadly, in some homes.
That's why, in 2005, I announced a special task force made up of community representatives, the private sector and government to work together and lead Alberta's action on the growing problem of crystal meth abuse.
The Premier's Task Force on Crystal Meth is meeting with groups directly affected by this drug. Anyone in the public is welcome to share their thoughts through the online survey. In the end, the group will write a report based on what they've learned.
We stand a much better chance of helping those addicted to or at risk of trying crystal meth if we work together.