Pubdate: Wed, 29 Jun 2005
Source: Shoreline Beacon (CN ON)
Copyright: 2005 Shoreline Beacon
Contact: http://www.shorelinebeacon.com/contact.php
Website: http://www.shorelinebeacon.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3650
Author: Tracey Cassidy
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

METHAMPHETAMINE MORE DANGEROUS THAN HEROIN, CRACK

A new trend in drug use is creeping in on Saugeen Shores.

Last week, the local OPP arrested 38 individuals in a drug bust that
was 13-months in the making. Over $600,000 worth of various illegal
substances was seized - among it, what is now widely known as
methamphetamine.

The most frightening thing about this drug is its availability. You
don't even need to know a drug dealer to get your hands on it, you can
simply make it yourself. No fields required, as in marijuana growing.
No drug paraphernalia. All you need is a little cash, a few grocery
items, hardware supplies and the odd pharmaceutical product. Don't
know how to make it? That's easy too - just search the internet,
recipes are abundant, along with tips from manufacturers on how to
make the process simpler.

It's shocking.

But what's even more shocking is the effects this reborn drug can have
on the human body. It can rot your teeth to the point where they will
fall out in a matter of months, cause stroke, heart problems and
depression. It can cause hallucination, violence, psychotic episodes
and lower one's inhibitions, thereby making unprotected sex more
likely among some users. Health officials say it will have an impact
of the spreading of HIV. Just one of the many frightening ripple
effects. Permanent brain damage is also suspected, as is schizophrenia
and cancer.

Not since crack has there been a drug with greater physiological
effects, says one expert.

"Even heroin doesn't eat people up as quick as meth," notes
another.

In the states, it's even made its way onto grade school
buses.

It's something this community needs to be educated on. Learn about the
ingredients involved and be alert to any questionable activity.
Parents, children and even retailers need to be aware of what is
involved in the manufacturing of methamphetamine. Large purchases of
items such as iodine, battery acid and Contact C prescription drugs
could be suspicious. Be aware and ask questions - talk to your kids.

While the OPP may have successfully stopped a load of this
life-sucking drug from entering this community, we're sure there's
more where that came from. Don't let it into your home.
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake