Pubdate: Wed, 29 Dec 2004 Source: Muskogee Daily Phoenix (OK) Copyright: C2004 Muskogee Daily Phoenix Contact: http://www.muskogeephoenix.com/customerservice/contactus.html Website: http://www.muskogeephoenix.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3319 Author: Peter Vanderkloot Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine) DEMON DRUG OFTEN USED LEGALLY The Dec. 16 writer's concerns regarding the consequences of "legalizing" methamphetamine are certainly understandable; however, it should be pointed out that methamphetamine is "already" legal. It is routinely prescribed under trade names such as Desoxyn by physicians for a number of medical conditions. Many productive members of society take this drug every day without suffering serious consequences. President John F. Kennedy, who was given regular injections of methamphetamine while he was in the White House, is but one of the more well-known examples. I mention this to point out that while there are very real dangers associated with inappropriate use and abuse of this drug, alarmist claims and reporting on this subject do not serve to improve the situation. Amphetamines have been used and abused in this country for 70 years and like most drugs and medications have both benefited and harmed society. Let us not fall prey to a hysterical sense that we are facing a "new demon drug" when in fact the realities are far more complex. Peter Vanderkloot New York, N.Y. - ---