Methamphetamine
Crystal Meth or Crystal Methamphetamine (Also called Tina or T) is a stimulant of the Amphetamine family. It is increasingly being used for Chemsex or “Partying” or PNP (Party and Play). The Crystal part if its name refers to the fact that it looks like crystals.
Use
Meth is often injected into the veins known as slamming. It dissolves in water so a solution can be made to inject. It can also be smoked, sometimes referred to as clouds. It can also be bumped, with the dissolved solution put up the ass or a crystal shard directly put up the ass.
Risks
Meth is a high strength amphetamine and puts a high strain on the heart and increases blood pressure. It is frequent to feel pulptations when taking meth and can be risk of heart attack and stroke,
Injecting or slamming meth carries the risk of HIV and Hep C if reusing needles and syringes. Fresh needles and syringes should be used for each slam and not shared. Injection water should be used to reduce the risk of infection, tap water is not clean enough to inject into the body.
Meth should not be mixed with other drugs. Also note that caffeine accelerates the effect of meth and is dangerous.
It is also not processed by the body and therefore it is possible for people to get high from drinking the piss if someone who has taken meth (referred to as chempiss).
Because of the strong effect of meth, the comedown is often severe. It may not be possible sleep for a few days after using. People may experience paranoia and hallucinations. On going use can cause psychosis and even brain damage.
As a stimulant it also has the effect of surprising appetite so it may be difficult to eat.
Meth is psychologically and physically addictive.
Harm reduction
Smoking meth is generally considered a lower risk than injecting. As discussed above, do not share needles and syringes and try to keep preparation as sterile as possible and cap needles after use.
Avoid caffeine which accelerates the effects of meth. Avoid mixing with other drugs.
Ensure you stay hydrated and do not overheat, watch the colour of your piss to monitor hydration.
If you can’t manage to eat, use protein shakes, rehydration powder and vitamin tablets until your appetite returns.
The comedown can be rough, ensure you have time before you need to do other things. Do not drive or operate machinery until safe to do so. Watching gentle television programs and cartoons may help to wait out the comedown, avoid things with action and excitement. If possible have a friend for company and to help look after you.
If use is affecting your work, social life and relationships seek advice from a drug counselling service.