What is Crystal Meth?

Crystal Meth is a commonly known street name for Methamphetamine, an extraordinarily addictive stimulant. Methamphetamine sold illicitly is generally in its crystalline form, hence the name “crystal meth”. Other common names are ice, tina, glass, black beauties, crank, chalk, glass, quartz and shards. Methamphetamine may be legally obtained with a valid medical prescription for attention deficit disorder, weight management, and However, crystal meth is an illicit substance, developed by extracting ephedrine or pseudoephedrine from over the counter cold and allergy medication. Methamphetamine laboratories are discovered by happenstance, often when a fire erupts and response teams arrive. Preparers of crystal meth generally are at extremely high risk of developing lung damage as well as chemical abrasions. Research shows that crystal meth use and unprotected sexual activity, particularly anal sex, are closely associated among gay and bisexual men. There is also a strong correlation between using crystal meth and contraction of HIV. On the one hand, crystal meth gives the user the ability to extend the duration of sexual intercourse. On the other hand the user runs the risk of developing genital abrasions and sores. Crystal meth has also been found to commonly cause teeth clinching and grinding which often results in sores and abrasions in the mouth. Therefore, oral sex, generally low risk sexual activity, becomes a high risk sexual activity. Because methamphetamine may be intravenously injected, HIV and Hepatitis is commonly transmitted where needles are shared. When crystal meth is regularly abused quiting often results in withdrawal and relapse is very common. To address addictive use of crystal meth doctors and researchers have been working to develop alternative stimulants like dextroamphetamine.