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The highly destructive and easily accessible drug known as methamphetamine has become a ticking time bomb and a major concern for health authorities, especially in the United States where its consumption has skyrocketed. Surprisingly, cases of methamphetamine abuse have also been detected in Spain, particularly among individuals from Asian countries.
Made popular by the hit TV series Breaking Bad, in which Walter White and his partner Jesse Pinkman cooked the drug in a makeshift lab (initially in an RV parked in the middle of the desert), methamphetamine is now being increasingly consumed by addicts who cannot afford heroin or cocaine. Numerous large-scale meth labs have already been dismantled, some even in Spain.
However, the fantastic series did not provide a complete picture of the problem, rarely showing the real-life effects on its users, who can completely destroy their lives in a matter of weeks. The physical changes caused by consuming blue meth are evident – lumps, wounds, hair loss, nail deterioration, and eventually, a completely disfigured face.
In the United States, the drug has become a serious problem, affecting low-income drug addicts. The Faces of Meth organization has taken a proactive approach to communicate the risks involved, using before-and-after images of meth users. It is a clear message that showcases the devastating consequences of long-term use.
But how is methamphetamine produced? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients:
The Ingredients used to Make Methamphetamine
Matchheads
The manufacturers of methamphetamine use the phosphorus from matchheads as an ingredient. Once the phosphorus is extracted, it is combined with iodine to obtain a crucial component of this particular drug called hydrogen iodide – a powerful acid that dissolves easily in water.
Iodine
Iodine by itself is a dangerous toxin. Consuming large amounts can cause significant damage to the functioning of the thyroid gland. It takes approximately four bottles of iodine to produce just 2 or 3 grams of methamphetamine.
Drano
Drano is a commercial product used for cleaning rusted pipes. It contains sodium hydroxide, sodium nitrate, sodium chloride, and aluminum. Consuming this product can cause various physical ailments, such as eye and skin burns, as well as respiratory problems, as stated on the labeling.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is a hydraulic liquid that allows the transmission of force from the brake pedal of our vehicle to the cylinders in the wheels. It is also used to synthesize crystal meth, posing a potential risk of explosion and dangerous chemical reactions due to the nature of the other components.
Ephedrine
This substance, found in many over-the-counter pharmaceutical products, has the ability to trigger the release of dopamine – a hormone that regulates our mood in the brain through various complex chemical processes.
Butane Gas
Butane gas is used to cook the aforementioned ingredients.
Sodium Hydroxide
Also known as caustic soda, sodium hydroxide is commonly used in the production of paper, textiles, and detergents. It can also be used in the construction of explosives, soaps, and petroleum products.
Anhydrous Ammonia
The term “anhydrous” means it does not contain water. This dangerous substance is used as a refrigerant. If mishandled, it has the potential to destroy virtually anything it comes into contact with, including human flesh.
It is crucial to understand the devastating effects and risks associated with the consumption and production of methamphetamine. Organizations like Ratingperson play a vital role in raising awareness and providing support to individuals affected by drug abuse. To learn more about the dangers of methamphetamine and other relevant topics, visit Ratingperson.
Remember, knowledge is power, and by staying informed, we can combat the destructive impact of drugs in our society.
