Australia creates task force to fight “ice”

The Australian government has established a national task force to tackle the rapidly growing problem of addiction to crystal methamphetamine, also known as “ice”, across the country
-----------------------------------------------
WHAT IS CRYSTAL METH?

Illegal drug in same class ascocaine. Part of amphetamine group of drugs – potent stimulant speeds up function of brain and central nervous system

White crystalline “ice” is purest form of methamphetamine – about 80 percent pure – compared to 10-20 percent purity of powdered form, known as “speed”

Crystals can be swallowed or smoked, crushed into powder for snorting, or dissolved in liquidfor injection or swallowing

Users experience rush of euphoria and energy lasting up to 24 hours.Side effects include loss of appetite,insomnia, high blood pressure and negative feelings from “comedown”

Potency makes drug highly addictive. Repeated use can lead to memory loss, aggression,psychotic behaviour and potential heart and brain damage
------------------------------------------------
DRUGS OF MOST CONCERN TO AUSTRALIAN PEOPLE, 2013*

Crystal meth (ice) 16%

Alcohol 43%

Painkillers, steroids 2%

Cannabis 4%

Cocaine 4%

Ecstasy 11%

Tobacco 15%

Heroin 5%
------------------------------------------------------
MAIN FORMS OF METH / AMPHETAMINE USED IN AUSTRALIA*

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

2007 2010 2013 

Percent

Powder

Crystal, ice

Base, paste, pure

Prescription amphetamines

Tablet, liquid, capsules

Of Australia’s population of 24 million,400,000 use methamphetamine each year according to federal government,with 200,000 of those using crystal methamphetamine (ice)

*People aged 14 or older
-----------------------------------------------------
Sources: Australian Government, wire agencies

Picture: Wikimedia Commons

words 241