Methamphetamine has surpassed marijuana to become the second most consumed drug in Iowa. According to a report released Monday by the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), there was a 38-percent increase in methamphetamine treatment admissions in Iowa over a three-year span, from 2014 to 2017. Over that same time period, deaths related to amphetamines, which includes methamphetamine, increased by nearly eight times. Friday, Nov. 30 is National Methamphetamine Awareness Day, and the department is reminding Iowans that drug use remains a serious problem in the state. According to Katie Bee with the Bureau of Substance Abuse, “Meth is now the second most reported drug used by adults at admission to treatment, moving ahead of marijuana for the first time. Alcohol remains number one for adults, while marijuana remains the number one drug of choice for juveniles.” Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant and is most commonly found as a white, odorless powder. While under its effects, individuals generally experience increased attention and activity, decreased appetite and a rapid heartbeat. Long-term consequences include paranoia, hallucinations, changes to brain structure, memory loss, aggression and severe dental issues. Bee encourages Iowans concerned about their or a loved one’s methamphetamine use to utilize the statewide treatment network, which can be found at www.yourlifeiowa.org and by text, chat or phone at 855-581-8111.
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855-581-8111
