"Faces of Meth"

What is Methamphetamine (Meth)?

How is Meth made?

What are the
effects of Meth?

How do I talk to my child about Meth?

Who do I call for help?

Gloucester County
Task Force Members

Gloucester County
Task Force Current
Action Plan

Additional Resources

Gloucester County Task Force
Home Page

Board of Supervisors
Home Page

Effects of Meth Use

     When the high wears off, people who use Meth go through a severe "crash."

     Recent studies have shown that Meth causes more damage to the brain than alcohol, heroin, or cocaine.

     Because Meth can be made from lethal ingredients like battery acid, drain cleaner, lantern fuel, and antifreeze, there is a greater chance of having a heart attack, stroke, or serious brain damage with this drug than with other drugs. Long-term Meth use can result in fatal kidney and lung disorders, brain damage, liver damage, chronic depression, paranoia, and other physical and mental disorders.

How can you tell if someone is using Meth?   

Symptoms of Meth use may include:
Inability to sleep Increased sensitivity to noise Nervous physical activity, like scratching Irritability, dizziness, or confusion Extreme anorexia Tremors or convulsions Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and risk of stroke Presence of inhaling paraphernalia, such as razor blades, mirrors, and straws Presence of injecting paraphernalia, such as syringes, heated spoons, or surgical tubing.

For treatment of Meth, visit Who do I call for help?

Meth use poses a real and growing threat to individuals, families, and communities across the country. Talk with your children about the dangers of using Meth and help them find safe ways to "boost their energy." For example, they can take a 15-minute power nap after school, eat a high-energy snack, or exercise for 30 minutes. Meth is sweeping the Nation, but you have the power to prevent it from reaching your family.

Updated by Amanda Wallace:  05/09/2008