ICE, a new, more potent form of crystal methampletamine, is quickly being characterized as the drug of the 90's due to its inexpensive cost and its promoted high. However, in reality, ICE can cause major disruptions in the user's physical health, but it causes the most deterioration in the user's mental and behavioral health. It takes the from of translucent crystals similar in appearance, size, shape, and consistency to rock candy. The drug is smoked, leading to an intoxification period ranging from four hours to fourteen hours.

When the drug is used, the following physiological effects can be present:

elevated respiration

elevated heart rate

elevated blood pressure

central nervous system stimulation

euphoric sense of well-being

elevated energy levels

attention focus extremes (pin-point or fragmented)

impaired risk regarding judgements

heightening of existing psychopathology

Continuing the use of the drug would not only continue the above effects with greater severity, but would also include the following effects:

paranoia

hallucinations

thought broadcasting delusions

neurological damage

physical deterioration

extreme sensitivity to stimulus

acute psychotic episodes

potential for long-term psychosis

Withdrawal symptoms include sever depression, paranoia, hallucinations, violent behavior. The violent behavior can fluctuate between the range of mild violent outbursts to extreme violent behavior. This extreme violent behavior can be caused by a complete psychotic break. These episodes are associated usually with medium to long-term users of the drug.

This information has been generously provided to us by the Alcove, West Jersey Health System's Addiction Treatment Program. For further information, or for assistance, treatment and referral call Alcove (609) 342-4505.