Also Known As: Go fast, Cristy, Tina, Crystal Meth, Chalk, Crazy medicine, Crank, Ice, Shabu, Zip, Glass, Yaba

Category: Stimulant

What it looks like

Methamphetamine usually takes the form of a white odourless and bitter-tasting crystalline powder, readily soluble in water or alcohol. It is known as Ice when in a crystal-like rock form and Yaba when in tablet form, usually red, orange but sometimes green. Methamphetamine is still relatively rare in Scotland.

How it's taken

It can be smoked, injected intravenously, snorted or digested orally.

Effects

Immediately after smoking or injecting, users experience a rush that lasts only a few minutes. Small amounts of methamphetamine can produce euphoria, wakefulness, increased physical activity, decreased appetite and increased respiration. The user may also experience powerful hallucinations.

Risks

Short term: The drug can cause disturbing hallucinations and make the user extremely paranoid. One of the nastier and most common hallucinations is ‘speed bugs’ or ‘crank bugs’ where users think bugs are crawling under their skin and go frantic trying to get them out.

Long term: Regular use is linked to lung and kidney disorders. Coming off the drug can lead to severe depression and suicidal urges.

Legal status

Methamphetamine – often referred to as crystal meth – was reclassified as a Class A drug on 18th January 2007. It is illegal to have, give away or sell. As a Class A drug, possession can get you up to seven years in jail and/or an unlimited fine. Supplying someone else, even your friends, can get you up to life imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.

Remember: Having a criminal record can make it difficult for you to get a job or visa if you want to travel abroad.

What’s the difference between possession & supply (dealing)? What happens if you’re under 16? Learn more about drugs and the law.