Meth Facts and Resources

Methamphetamine is a cheap derivative of amphetamine that costs less than cocaine but is far more addictive. Methamphetamine users ingest the drug in a variety of ways —snorting, swallowing, injection, or smoking. It produces a sense of euphoria by increasing the release of dopamine in the brain.

The abuse of methamphetamine over prolonged periods can cause addiction, anxiety, insomnia, mood disturbances, and violent behavior. Additionally, the drug can produce psychotic symptoms in users, such as paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions.

Facts about Methamphetamine

• Nationally, the most current data show that the use of methamphetamine is in decline.
  
  
• Number of Americans aged 12 or older who have tried meth at least once: 10.4 million
  
  
• Percentage of U.S. population in that age group that has tried meth: 4.3%
  
  
• Number of people using meth in 2005: 1.3 million
  
  
• Decrease from 2001 to 2005 in the percentage of high school students reporting using methamphetamine: 3.6%
  
  
• Overall reduction in number of meth lab seizures by law enforcement nationwide: 42%
  
  
• Percentage admissions for meth abuse treatment increased from 1995 to 2005: 8%
  
  
• Percentage of sheriffs who cite meth use as their number one drug problem: 47%
  
  
• Percentage of sheriffs who report increase in meth-related crime: 55%
  
  

Sources

SAMHSA: National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2005

National Drug Intelligence Center: National Drug Threat Assessment 2007

CDC: Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance 2005

SAMHSA: Treatment Episode Data Set Highlights 2005

National Association of Counties Survey: Meth Epidemic in America, July 2005 [pdf]