Newest data shows that usage of street drug methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” is increasing among the most disadvantaged and extreme drug users, while decreasing among those who are casual drug users. The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) has released two research papers that examine the different ways in which drug users are coming into contact with the “speed” drug, a form of crystal methamphetamine.

In spite of an increase in strength and availability of the drug over the years, as suggested by research, and media reports that claim devastation among rural communities due to crystal meth use, experts say that the data indicates it is less widespread than is perceived. The drug use was tracked by pursuing two groups: people who are already known to inject drugs, described as “sentinel” drug users, and those who commonly engage with ecstasy and similar drugs.

“We have done a little bit of work around methamphetamine, looking at all the data sources. Clearly there is an upward trend in the indicator data, the hospitalisation (rates), some of the deaths, and seizures,” said Amanda Roxburgh from the NDARC, PerthNow reports. “No doubt we have seen a major upswing in the number of crystal methamphetamine seizures coming into the country.”

Among the key findings was that speed drug usage had increased by six percent in 2015. among intravenous drug users. Out of those, two-thirds said they were regular speed users, suggesting that the drug was ingrained in that community. It is also found the low levels of speed drug usage among those who were users of psycho-stimulant drugs such as MDMA, also known as “ecstasy.” Many from this group reported cutting down on their usage of the drug ice.

NDARC Director Michael Farrell said that the seizures of ice are increasing, indicating an increase in purity and strength of the drug. "We think that this, for people who are injecting drugs, is presenting new and more complex problems; Australia remains pretty much a sitting target for marketing and implementation,” he told SMH.

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