Tips for Teens
About Methamphetamines

A highly addictive drug, methamphetamine use is now second only to alcohol and marijuana in Western and Midwestern states. Meth is a powerful central nervous system stimulant and an overdose can cause immediate heart failure. It is called the "Ugly Drug" as it deteriorates the users' skin and body tissues and can cause irreversible damage to the blood vessels in the brain.

Studies have shown that some users are hooked the first time they try Meth. Made from lethal ingredients, Meth is made from highly combustible and corrosive ingredients and can explode violently, giving off toxic fumes.

The Risks Associated With Methamphetamine Use

 

	Meth can cause irreversible brain damage
	Inability to sleep
	Increased sensitivity to sound
	Extreme anorexia through decreased appetite
	Risk of stroke through increased blood pressure and heart rate
	High doses can elevate body temperature to dangerous levels causing convulsions and/or death
	Chronic abuse can lead to psychotic behavior which can include hallucinations and violent rages
	Withdrawal symptoms can include fatigue, anxiety, depression, aggression and an intense craving for the drug

Myth: Methamphetamine is not a heavy drug and won't really hurt me.

Fact: Methamphetamine use can cause distorted brain function, can be immediately fatal and puts
the user at risk for unwanted pregnacy, HIV/AIDS.

Quick Facts

Know the law.

Methamphetamine is an illegal substance in all States and is highly dangerous.

Get the facts right.

The ignitable, corrosive and toxic nature of the chemicals used to produce meth can cause fires, produce toxic vapors, and damage the environment.

Stay informed.

Methamphetamine use is on the rise as well as the number of people admitted for treatment.

Be aware of the risks.

Meth users have a distorted view of reality. They tend to have low appetite and increased sensitivity to noise. Meth can cause a severe crash after its effects wear off. Meth has been shown to cause irreversible damage to blood vessels in the brain.

Keep your edge.

Meth is called the "Ugly Drug" because its use can ruin your looks, make you depressed, and contribute to slipping grades. Meth use rots the teeth and damages the gums; it can also create large leisions anywhere on the body.

Play it safe.

One incident of meth use could lead to addiction or even death.

Do the smart thing.

Avoid people who use meth. Called a "Date Drug", be especially careful when attending parties and events, as anyone can easily slip this drug into beverages and take advantage of your loss of control.

Get with the program.

Doing drugs isn’t "in" anymore.

Face your problems.

Using meth won’t help you escape your problems, it will only create more. Talk to your parents or other trusted adult. Get help.

Be a real friend.

If you know someone who is using meth, urge your friend to stop and get help. The longer they ignore the problem the more risk to their life.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, SAMHSA