Brain Tissue Damage from Drugs

A University of California study has shown a massive destruction of brain tissue by using the illicit drug methamphetamine known as ‘Meth’.

The use of Meth causes severe inflammation of brain tissue making the brain 10 per cent larger than normal.

The brain’s centre for making new memories (hippocampus) had lost 8 per cent of its tissue in Meth users, which is similar to the brain deficits in early Alzheimers.

Meth users fared significantly worse in memory tests than healthy people of the same age.

The destruction of brain tissue and inflammation caused users to be depressed, anxious and unable to concentrate.

Using a high-resolution M.R.I. scan showed up the harmful effects of Meth.

(Source: New York Times 20 July 2004)

DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL COMMENTS-

Amphetamines are a popular drug at parties and clubs in Australia.

The effects of party drugs like Meth causes violent mood swings, hallucinations, paranoid delusions and uncontrolled violence.

The Australian Federal Police have already warned that massive amounts of amphetamines from Asia’s Golden Triangle are targeted for Australia.

Australian criminal gangs also produce large amounts of amphetamines.

Australia must reduce the increasing proportion of young people that are using illicit drugs by implementing detoxification and rehabilitation programs for illicit drug users to get them drug free.