Methamphetamine use in Australia, including ice, has tripled in five years. A new study published in the Medical Journal of Australia shows there are 268,000 regular and dependent methamphetamine users.
What is ice?
Ice, also known as ‘crystal meth’, is a crystalline form of the drug methamphetamine. Other names include meth, shabu, tina and glass.
Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that comes in three main forms: ice, base and speed. The difference between ice, base and speed is that ice is the more pure form, followed by the base, then speed.
Even though the crystalline appearance of ice makes it look pure, ice can still be 'cut’ with other chemicals. The high purity of ice can mean that the side effects are worse than for speed and base, such as more agitation, worse comedowns and higher addiction.
What are the risks?
Problems can include social issues, such as family and relationship trouble; losing friends, jobs, doing badly at school or study and homelessness, and financial issues if the user becomes dependent.
The use of ice increases your risk of stroke, heart problems, kidney failure, lung problems, dehydration, malnutrition, exhaustion, cracked teeth and gum disease.
If injected, methamphetamine use is associated with vein problems, abscesses, and bacterial infections.
Where to find help
Alcohol and Drug Services (free service): 1300 139 641