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Did You Know?

  • Common names for meth include: speed, crystal, ice, chalk, jib, and tina
  • Oftentimes, morbidity by methamphetamine is under-reported because death can be caused by: choking on ones vomit, infection (HIV/hepatitis), sepsis, heart failure, suicide, etc.
  • The 1960s was dominated by hippie culture. The live free lifestyle that many followed included experimentation with drugs, like marijuana, hallucinogens (LSD), and stimulants (meth). As the demand for meth started growing, its production was controlled by motorcycle gangs. Overtime, meth has lost its association with hippies and instead it is now associated with partying and nightlife
People protesting with a sign saying "Drop Acid, not Bombs!"

How Many People Use Meth?

  • It is hard to estimate the number of users since many people will not admit if they’ve done it. Despite this, a Canadian study from 2012 approximated that there were over 50,000 meth users; however, this number is probably much higher now
  • Meth use is most commonly seen in:
    • Caucasian
    • Young adults, ages 19-39
    • Males 
An infographic saying "Methamphetamine in Canada. Use is low among the general population (Meth). The graph describes that heroin use is extremely low, meth use is less than 5%, ecstasy is less than 10%, cocaine is approximately 10%, hallucinogens are less than 15%, and cannabis is approximately 45%. National use of methamphetamine is low, but use and harms are on the rise in certain regions. Meth detected in illicit drug overdose deaths: 360% in B.C. (2008-2017). 260% in Alberta (2015-2017). 170% in Manitoba (2016-2017). Demand for treatment and harm reduction services: 150% in B.C. (2015-2018). 300% in Alberta (2011-2016). 500% in Saskatchewan (2009-2016). 270% in Manitoba (2014-2019). 390% in Ontario (2012-2017). Hospitalizations due to stimulants between 2010-2015: 800% in Alberta. 600% in Manitoba. 500% in B.C. Law enforcement indicators: 190% meth seizures (2015-2017). 630% possession charges (2010-2018). 340% trafficking charges (2010-2018). Largely meth but includes other amphetamines and prescription stimulants. What can we do about the increasing use and harms of methamphetamine. Researchers prioritize monitoring and knowledge sharing about drug use and harms. Policy makers address determinants of health related to the use of meth and other substances. Service providers increase availability of treatment and harm reduction services. People who use drugs reduce risks by not using alone, using in a safe space and using safer drugs supplies. Canadian centre on substance use and addiction. Evidence. Engagement. Impact. www.ccsa.ca"

Information gathered from:

https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/straight-talk-methamphetamines

https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2020-04/CCSA-Methamphetamine-Use-Harms-Canada-Infographic-2020-en.pdf

https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2019-04/CCSA-Canadian-Drug-Summary-Methamphetamine-2018-en.pdf