Methamphetamine

It is a white, odorless, bitter tasting powder or small crystals.

Also known as Ice, Crystal, Crystal Meth, Meth, crank, glass and in South Africa commonly called Tik, methamphetamine is an addictive drug It is one of the most difficult addictions to treat.

In South Africa, many people think that Meths is only used on the Cape flats. This is untrue, the drug is used right throughout the country and is a big problem.

This drug is a psychoactive stimulant. It mostly increases energy and alertness, but in higher doses induces euphoria, increases sexual pleasure and enhances self – esteem. It can also increase anxiety, irritability, aggression, obsessive behaviors, weight loss, irregular heart beat and paranoia.

Meth Mouth
Users of Meth often lose their teeth, a condition known as meth mouth. It is not true that this condition is caused by the corrosive actions of the drug itself. Instead, it is probably caused by a number of factors coinciding with the use of Meth, such as dry mouth and bad oral hygiene. Other factors also play a part.

The drug is most commonly administered through injection, smoking and snorting. Because of the use of needles when injecting, HIV and Hepatitis B and C are also known to spread with the use of Meths.

How to recognize Crystal Meths?
The first image shows the pipe that Meths are commonly smoked through.
The second image is a photo of Crystal Meths.


References:
Wikipedia.
National institute on drug abuse (USA gov)