Methamphetamine

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While the prevalence of methamphetamine use among the general population in Canada is low, since 2013 there has been a dramatic increase in the availability and harms associated with methamphetamine in Canada. This trend is particularly true in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Understanding the impacts of the substance is essential to minimizing the risks and harms. CCSA brings together knowledge and provides targeted materials to support evidence-based decisions and actions for policy and practice.

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methamphetamine.

What Is Methamphetamine?

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Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug known for psychoactive effects. It is classified as a central nervous system stimulant and comes in a variety of forms such as powder, tablets, crystals and rock-like chunks. Depending on its form, methamphetamine can be snorted, injected, ingested or smoked.

Methamphetamine produces a euphoric high and can be used to increase alertness, energy and self-confidence. It also produces harmful physiological and psychological effects including headache, elevated heart rate and body temperature, hallucinations and delusions. Regular use is associated with an increased risk of addiction, psychotic symptoms and cognitive impairment such as memory loss.

Methamphetamine is often produced illegally in laboratories using inexpensive chemicals found in medications, such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. Illegal production can be dangerous due to the toxicity of other chemicals used and the high risk of explosions.

Featured Resource

Informing Responses to Harms Related to Methamphetamine Use with Lessons from Public Health Crises

This literature review summarizes lessons learned from the current methamphetamine crisis as well as previous public health crises in Canada, including the HIV/AIDS crisis, the opioid crisis and other crises, to inform responses to the growing methamphetamine crisis in Canada. The report identifies potential areas for further investigation and improvement.

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Methamphetamine.
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Guidance, Tools and Resources

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CCSA produces research-based publications, tools, and resources to support evidence-based decision-making on substance use health issues. Select your area of interest from the categories below to learn more: 

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Substances

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CCSA produces a variety of substance use- and addiction-related publications for researchers, policy makers and health service providers. We provide guidance to decision makers through harnessing the power of research, collecting and organizing knowledge, and bringing together diverse perspectives. 

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Health and Public Safety

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CCSA conducts research, develops tools and resources, and produces targeted materials to support evidence-based decisions and public policy. Review our key resources on health and public safety in relation to substance use health and addiction issues.

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People and Communities

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CCSA is dedicated to the health and well-being of individuals and communities, focusing on the impact of substance use across the lifespan, the perspectives of people with lived experience, and the roles of stigma, sex and gender, and educators in substance use health.