‘Crystal meth’ use among polydrug users in Sydney's dance party subculture: characteristics, use patterns and associated harms

Abstract

Aims: To examine the characteristics of a small sample of crystal methamphetamine users (‘crystal meth’), and their history of crystal meth and other drug use; to assess the extent and context of crystal meth use; and to document the perceived psychological and physical side effects of use. Method: A sample of 45 persons reporting the use of crystal methamphetamine was recruited from a variety of sources and administered a structured interview regarding their methamphetamine use and related harms. Reports of side effects among this sample of methamphetamine users were compared with those reported by a sample of much heavier, longer-term and predominantly injecting amphetamine powder users, a related but less potent form of this class of drugs. Findings: The sample was largely male, highly educated and employed. Most users had experience with a variety of party drugs, of which crystal methamphetamine was a relatively recent addition. Many users had not had extensive experience with the drug; despite this, high rates of significant physical and psychological side effects were reported. Comparison with amphetamine users revealed that similar proportions of both groups reported most symptoms. Symptoms reflecting high doses of amphetamines (such as chest pains, heart palpitations, panic attacks) were reported by higher proportions of crystal methamphetamine users, whereas amphetamine users were more likely to report violent behaviour, hallucinations, and headaches. Conclusions: Despite relatively recent and infrequent use of crystal methamphetamine, users were highly likely to report a wide range of significant side effects.