H o w i s C r y s t a l M e t h d i ff e r e n t t h a n o t h e r d r u g s ?

Crystal meth is a drug known to give individuals energy and make them confident, alert and strong for many hours. Some enjoy it because of the decrease in appetite which leads to weight loss.

Drug Name What it is typically used for and how it’s administered

Acute Effects / Health Risks

How is it different from Crystal meth?

Benzodiazepines

(Xanax, Ativan, Valium)

Typically used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Taken in the form of tablets, gel caps, and can occasionally be injectable solutions.

Benzo’s act by weakening the central nervous system.

A lot of the acute effects and health risks are similar to Crystal meth; however depressants reduce arousal and stimulation – whereas meth does the opposite.

GHB (also known as G,

liquid ecstasy, liquid x)

When it initially was initially produced in the 1970s it was used for medical purposes, it is now considered illegal.

Drowsiness NauseaHeadacheMemory loss/unconsciousness SeizuresComa

Heroin When it is first synthesized it was used as a painkiller.

Injected, smoked, snorted

EuphoriaDrowsiness Impaired coordination Slowed or arrested breathingOpiates (Oxycodone,

Hydromorphone, Fentanyl,

Morphine)

Cocaine Snorted, smoked or injected

Increased heart rate, blood pressure, body temperatureFeelings of exhilaration Increased energy, mental alertnessTremorsReduced appetiteAnxiety, panicIrritability Violent behaviour

Cocaine works incredibly similar to Crystal meth, however cocaine is quickly removed from the body and almost completely metabolized, whereas Meth has a much longer period of action in the body. A large percentage of Crystal meth remains unchanged in the body.

References:

RCMP – GRC. (2015). Drug Awareness Sheet [PDF]. Retrieved from: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/wam/media/1943/original/bcb10247612e9d92b12b0c832b7b80bf.pdf

National Institute of Drug Abuse. (2011). Commonly Abused Drugs [PDF]. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from: https://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/cadchart.pdf

CAMH. (n.d.) Straight Talk – Methamphetamine. Retrieved from: https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/straight-talk-methamphetamines

DEPRESSANTS (DOWNERS)

SCAA

STIMULANTS (UPPERS)