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Methamphetamine or "crystal meth" is a synthetic stimulant drug which creates a sense of euphoria and is highly addictive. Methamphetamine hydrochloride is a white crystalline solid, illicitly distributed as very pure crystals termed glass or crystal, or as a very impure powder termed crank or speed. Methamphetamine was first synthesized in 1919 in Japan.

Methamphetamine is chemically similar to and can be synthesized from pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, a commonly available decongestant with no strong euphoric effects. There are many different recipes for conversion which can be found on the internet. The synthesis process involves dangerous chemicals which are generally used by people without laboratory training. This results in highly dangerous situations which can be environmental hazards.

Yaba is methamphetamine tablets, often colored and candy flavored. Yaba means "crazy drug" in Thai language and is popular in East Asia and Southeast Asia, where the drug is produced.

Methamphetamine is often given to fighting troops and pilots during war. During the second world war, it was widely used by Germany and its allies under the name Pervitin.

Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II substance by the DEA in the United States. It is prescribed as a treatment for narcolepsy, obesity, and attention deficit disorder and supplied as 5mg methamphetamine hydrochloride tablets under the brand name Desoxyn.

Short-Terms Effect of Methamphetamine: Insomnia, weight loss, high body temperature, elevated blood presure, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, skin Rashes

Long-Term Effects of Methamphetamine: Liver damage, kidney damage, depression, altered brain chemistry

See also: amphetamine, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, dexamphetamine