Show ICE makes opportunity a reality.What is ice?Crystal methamphetamine (‘ice’, ice drug) is a stimulant drug, which means it speeds up the messages travelling between the brain and the body. It’s stronger, more addictive and therefore has more harmful side effects than the powder form of methamphetamine known as speed.1 Ice usually comes as small chunky clear crystals that look like ice. It can also come as white or brownish crystal-like powder with a strong smell and bitter taste.1 Other namesCrystal meth, shabu, crystal, glass, shard, P.1,2 How is it used?Ice is generally smoked (feel the effect almost immediately) or injected (15 to 30 seconds to feel the effects). It is sometimes swallowed (15 to 20 minutes to feel the effects) or snorted (3 to 5 minutes to feel the effects).3 Effects of iceThere is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries some risk. It’s important to be careful when taking any type of drug. The effects of ice can last for up to 12 hours,2 but it might be hard to sleep for a few days after using the drug. Ice affects everyone differently, but effects may include:
If injecting drugs there is an increased risk of:
If sharing needles there is an increased risk of:
Snorting ice can damage the nasal passage and cause nose bleeds. OverdoseIf you take a large amount or have a strong batch, you could overdose. Call an ambulance straight away by dialling triple zero (000) if you have any of these symptoms (ambulance officers don’t need to involve the police):
Coming downIt can take several days to come down from using ice. The following effects may be experienced during this time:
Using a depressant drug such as alcohol, benzodiazepines or cannabis to help with the come-down effects may result in a cycle of dependence on both types of drugs. Long-term effectsWith regular use, ice may eventually cause:
Ice psychosisHigh doses of ice and frequent use may result in a psychological condition known as ‘ice psychosis’, characterised by paranoid delusions, hallucinations and bizarre, aggressive or violent behaviour. These symptoms usually disappear a few days after the person stops using ice.1,4 DependencePeople who regularly use ice can quickly become dependent on the drug. They may feel they need ice to go about their normal activities like working, studying and socialising, or just to get through the day.1,5 Mental health problemsSome people who regularly use ice may start to feel less enjoyment of everyday activities. They can get stressed easily and their moods can go up and down quite quickly. These changes can lead to longer-term problems with anxiety and depression. People may feel these effects for at least several weeks or months after they give up ice.8 Mixing ice with other drugsThe effects of taking ice with other drugs − including over-the-counter or prescribed medications − can be unpredictable and dangerous, and could cause:
WithdrawalGiving up ice after using it for a long time is challenging because the body has to get used to functioning without it. Withdrawal symptoms generally settle down after a week and will mostly disappear after a month. Symptoms can include:
If your use of ice is affecting your health, family, relationships, work, school, financial or other life situations, you can find help and support. Call 1300 85 85 84 to speak to a real person and get answers to your questions as well as advice on practical ‘next steps’. Path2Help Not sure what you are looking for? Find out more Use of methamphetamine (ice) is against the law. Federal and state laws provide penalties for possessing, using, making, selling, importing or exporting, or driving under the influence of methamphetamine. The importation or exportation and the procuring of precursor drugs (such as pseudoephedrine) with the intention of manufacturing a controlled drug, is also against the law. Laws have been introduced that prevent the sale and possession of ice pipes in some states and territories. See also, drugs and the law. National
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Effectscrystal, crystal meth, crystal methamphetamine, glass, shabu, shard AKAcrystal, crystal meth, crystal methamphetamine, glass, shabu, shard What is ice slang for?Crystal methamphetamine ('ice', ice drug) is a stimulant drug, which means it speeds up the messages travelling between the brain and the body. It's stronger, more addictive and therefore has more harmful side effects than the powder form of methamphetamine known as speed.
Is ice a crystal?The crystal lattice of ice is hexagonal in its symmetry under most atmospheric conditions. Varying conditions of temperature and vapor pressure can lead to growth of crystalline forms in which the simple hexagonal pattern is present in widely different habits (a thin hexagonal plate or a long thin hexagonal column).
How does ice form?As the liquid cools down, the amount of potential energy is reduced and the molecules start to move slower. When the water temperature reaches around 0°C, the molecules stick together and form a solid – ice.
How many types of ice exist?There are more than 300 kinds of ice, scientists report.
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