Q - Isn't Methamphetamine less harmful than crack, cocaine, or heroin?

Ans: Some users get hooked the first time they snort, smoke or inject meth. Because it can be made from lethal incredients like battery acid, drain cleaner, lantern fuel, and antifreeze, there is a greater chance of suffering a heart attack, stroke, or serious brain damage with this drug than with other drugs.

Q - Isn't using Methamphetamine like using diet pills?

Ans: No. Though it is easily attainable, methamphetamine is dangerous and addictive. Between 1993 and 1995, deaths due to meth rose 125%. Between 1996 and 1997, meth-related emergency room visits doubled. Use by 12 to 17 year-olds has increased dramatically in the past few years.

Q - How is ICE used?

Ans: ICE is smoked in clear glass pipes, "meth bowls" or "bongs". The crystals are dropped into the pipe bowl, the bowl is heated with a blue flame lighter or torch. The ice smoke is inhaled for the high.

Q - How can I tell if my child or friend is using ICE?

Ans: Rapid unexplained weight loss ... Unusual energy at odd hours ... Unusual sleep habits; sleeplessness for days at a time ... Loss of appetite ... Burns on the fingers from the ice pipe or torch ... Paranoid behavior - unreasonable suspicions ... Money problems or an abundance of it if he/she is a dealer ... Loss of concern for children, family and friends ... Violent rages ... Hallucinations, confusion and anxiety.

Q - What can you do to help a friend who is using meth?

Ans: Be a real friend. You might even save a life. Encourage your friend to stop or seek professional help. For information and referrals, call the call the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information at 1-(800)-729-6686.