Crystal meth, a shortened term for crystal methamphetamine, is a powerful and highly addictive central nervous system stimulant. Classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, it shares its legal status with drugs like cocaine and morphine. The crystalline form of methamphetamine is illegal, and its production, sale, and use are strictly prohibited.
Commonly referred to as “meth, “crystal meth blue,” and other slang terms, crystal meth has left a lasting mark on popular culture through various media portrayals. This infamous drug has gained popularity due to its potential to provide intense euphoric effects, increased energy, and heightened alertness.
Some meth abusers say crystal meth produces a high like none other. The drug works by flooding the brain with extremely high amounts of dopamine. The high is quick and strong. Very high levels of dopamine can make you feel euphoric and invincible. Users can quickly develop an addiction to meth and tolerance to its pleasurable effects.
Crystal Meth vs. Crack
Crystal meth often is compared to crack cocaine. The drugs produce similar physiological effects, are highly addictive, and typically are smoked using a glass pipe. When not using a crystal meth pipe, meth can also be injected. Immediately after smoking or injecting crystal meth, people experience a brief rush that’s followed by a high that may last 12 hours or more. Crack users experience the same effects, but only for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Startling Statistics on Crystal Meth Use
According to recent statistics, crystal meth abuse has seen a concerning rise, with alarming rates of addiction and related crimes.
- Among people aged 12 or older in 2021, 0.9% (or about 2.5 million people) reported using methamphetamine in the past 12 months (2021 DT 1.1).
- That same study showed that among people aged 12 or older in 2021, an estimated 0.6% (or about 1.6 million people) had a methamphetamine use disorder in the past 12 months (2021 DT 5.1).
- In 2022, an estimated 0.2% of 8th graders, 0.3% of 10th graders, and 0.5% of 12th graders reported using methamphetamine in the past 12 months.
- In 2021, approximately 32,537 people died from an overdose involving psychostimulants with abuse potential other than cocaine (primarily methamphetamine).
While online sales are only a small fraction of the total global drug trade, the impact is widespread. For example, according to a 2016 study, recreational and pharmaceutical drugs were the most popular products sold through online marketplaces. Illegal drug sales generated approximately $27 million between December 2013 and July 2015 in the U.S.