From the Director
The abuse of methamphetamine - a potent psychostimulant - is an extremely serious and growing problem. Although the drug was first used primarily in selected urban areas in the Southwestern part of the United States, we now are seeing high levels of methamphetamine abuse in many areas of the Midwest, in both urban and rural settings, and by very diverse segments of the population.
As part of our Methamphetamine Research Initiative, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has developed this publication to provide an overview of the latest scientific findings on this drug. Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive stimulant associated with serious health conditions, including memory loss, aggression, psychotic behavior, and potential heart and brain damage; it also contributes to increased transmission of hepatitis and HIV/AIDS.
One of NIDA's most important goals is to translate what scientists learn from research to help the public better understand drug abuse and addiction and to develop more effective strategies for their prevention and treatment. We hope this compilation of scientific information on methamphetamine will help inform readers about the harmful effects of methamphetamine abuse and will assist in prevention and treatment efforts.
Alan I. Leshner, Ph.D.
Director
National Institute on Drug Abuse
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