Forms of Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is most commonly available in the following forms:

• Desoxyn (methamphetamine hydrochloride) tablets are Class II medications prescribed as an "anorectic" in treating obesity. Also used as a stimulant in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder-ADHD
• The term "crank" refers to any form (chunks or fine or coarse powder). It can be off-white to yellow and supplied loose (in plastic or foil bags) or in capsules or tablets of various sizes and colors.
• "Ice" is a crystallized smokeable chunk of meth that produces an intense reaction. Ice has an appearance that is clear and crystal-like and resembles frozen water; hence the name “ice.

• "Yaba" is a combination of methamphetamine and caffeine. Yaba, which means crazy medicine in Thai, is produced in Southeast and East Asia. The drug is popular in Asian communities in the United States and is increasingly available at raves and techno parties.

Yaba is sold as tablets. These tablets are generally no larger than a pencil eraser. They are brightly colored, usually reddish-orange or green. Yaba tablets are typically consumed orally. The tablets sometimes are flavored like candy (grape, orange, or vanilla). Another common method is called chasing the dragon. Users place the yaba tablet on aluminum foil and heat it from below. As the tablet melts, vapors rise and are inhaled. The drug may also be administered by crushing the tablets into powder, which is then snorted or injected with a solvent.

• Designer "amphetamines" There are a number of different types of designer drugs that have effects similar to that of methamphetamine. Methcathinone ("khat", "Jeff", "Cat") is a synthetic "amphetamine-like" drug. Another designer "amphetamine" known as MDMA, Ecstasy, E, Adam and M& M, is frequently used at "rave parties."

Mechanism of Action

Methamphetamine affects the central nervous system (CNS) by enhancing the release of serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine and blocking or reversing the dopaminergic and adrenergic re-uptake mechanisms. The effects of methamphetamine can resemble the fight or flight response, i.e., tachycardia, hypertension, vasoconstriction, bronchodilation, and hyperglycemia. Other effects include an increase in focus, alertness, as well as suppression of fatigue and appetite (Drugbank 2023).

References

Drugbank Online 2023. Metafetamine from https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01577

Yasaei R, Saadabadi A. Methamphetamine. [Updated 2023 ]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535356/