Crystal methamphetamine. Also called jib, crank, meth, crystal, ice, speed.
Commonly used in today’s club and rave scene for the high-energy rush it produces.
An artificial stimulant closely related to amphetamines.
Often distributed as a capsule, powder, or in chunks resembling pieces of ice.
Difficult to know the exact strength of the drug or what dangerous chemicals it has been cut with, even when buying from a familiar supplier.
Taken with other drugs, including alcohol, greatly increases the risk of overdose and death. Boosting (taking more while already high) is even riskier.
Highly addictive, produces extreme cravings, and can have very negative effects.
Long-term effects include problems with thinking, memory, and movement.
Effects
- Small doses can make you feel alert and energetic
- Acne-like sores
- Racing heartbeat, high blood pressure, chest pain, heart failure, death
- Damage to blood vessels in the brain or stroke
- Sleeping problems, exhaustion, restlessness
- Weight loss
- Confusion, paranoia, irritability and anxiety
- Shakiness, sweating, blurred vision, dizziness
- Convulsions
- Overheating
- Depression, violent, aggressive and suicidal behaviour
- Headaches
- Stomach pain and extreme hunger
- Out-of-control rages (tweaking)
- Overdose can cause delusions, hallucinations, seizures, stroke, heart failure, coma and death
Risks and staying safe
The only way to stay completely safe is not to take crystal meth at all.
- Every batch of crystal meth is tainted with toxic chemicals.
- Injection drug use is very risky. Sharing needles can spread HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Used needles must be disposed of properly. Call a local needle exchange program.
- Railing (snorting) increases chances of damaging the inside of the nose, or infection.
- Smoking can cause lung damage.
- Driving a vehicle when taking crystal meth is always dangerous.
- Crystal meth is addictive. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe.
- Crystal meth is illegal and possession can result in criminal charges.
AADAC Youth Services can be found in communities and schools across Alberta.
For more information, contact your local AADAC office or call the AADAC Help Line at 1-866-33AADAC. We are available to give you information and support.
Adapted with permission from the Designer Drug Harm Reduction Action Group, Hamilton, Ontario.
