PLAYING WITH FIRE-- LITERALLY

Methamphetamine is a very addictive drug and very destructive to both
the mind and the body. The drug is legally prescribed for ADHD,
obesity and depression. However, it's easily made illegally in
clandestine laboratories with relatively inexpensive and easily
available over-the-counter ingredients. This is why the drug has high
potential for widespread abuse. The illegal drug is also known as
meth, crank, ice, chalk, and speed.

Adverse effects of methamphetamine abuse include serious lung
disorders, severe weight loss, and aggressive behavior. Complications
of long-term use include bad teeth, skin ulcers, itching, depression,
high blood pressure, hyperthermia, increased wakefulness, stroke, and
even death. Psychological effects include euphoria, anxiety,
paranoia, and hallucinations. Other problems include domestic
violence, increased crime, and increased traffic violations and accidents.

The reason for the quick addiction to methamphetamine is that the
drug triggers the adrenal gland, which puts the body in a "fight or
flight" mode. In addition, the physical sensation that the drug gives
the user most likely results from the explosive release of dopamine
in the pleasure centers of the brain. Consequently, the success rate
for traditional methamphetamine rehabilitation is very low.

The clandestine nature of manufacturing and the presence of
ignitable, corrosive, and toxic chemicals at the sites have resulted
in explosions, fires, toxic fumes, and irreparable health damage.

Some teenagers start using meth at 12 or even younger. By that time
their brains are not yet fully developed. This is a very dangerous
combination. Parents and grandparents need to alert their teenagers
about the dangers of using meth.

Salman Elawad

Phenix City