The crystal methamphetamine epidemic hasn't spread to the Lowcountry, but it's on its way, according to county officials.

"We're very fortunate we don't have it yet, but it's something we're very concerned about," said 14th Judicial Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone.

Crystal meth, a glassy substance sold powdered or in rocks, is either smoked or injected to produce a long-lasting euphoric high, according to a Web site maintained by the National Drug Intelligence Center.

Over time, meth can produce inflammation of the lining surrounding the heart, tooth loss, paranoia and other symptoms.

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