Pubdate: Thu, 30 Dec 2010 Source: Ledger-Enquirer (Columbus, GA) Copyright: 2010 Ledger-Enquirer Contact: http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/237 Author: Salman Elawad PLAYING WITH FIRE-- LITERALLY Methamphetamine is a very addictive drug and very destructive to both the mind and the body. The drug is legally prescribed for ADHD, obesity and depression. However, it's easily made illegally in clandestine laboratories with relatively inexpensive and easily available over-the-counter ingredients. This is why the drug has high potential for widespread abuse. The illegal drug is also known as meth, crank, ice, chalk, and speed. Adverse effects of methamphetamine abuse include serious lung disorders, severe weight loss, and aggressive behavior. Complications of long-term use include bad teeth, skin ulcers, itching, depression, high blood pressure, hyperthermia, increased wakefulness, stroke, and even death. Psychological effects include euphoria, anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. Other problems include domestic violence, increased crime, and increased traffic violations and accidents. The reason for the quick addiction to methamphetamine is that the drug triggers the adrenal gland, which puts the body in a "fight or flight" mode. In addition, the physical sensation that the drug gives the user most likely results from the explosive release of dopamine in the pleasure centers of the brain. Consequently, the success rate for traditional methamphetamine rehabilitation is very low. The clandestine nature of manufacturing and the presence of ignitable, corrosive, and toxic chemicals at the sites have resulted in explosions, fires, toxic fumes, and irreparable health damage. Some teenagers start using meth at 12 or even younger. By that time their brains are not yet fully developed. This is a very dangerous combination. Parents and grandparents need to alert their teenagers about the dangers of using meth. Salman Elawad Phenix City - --- MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart