Ice - DrugInfo Clearinghouse Newsletter

Background

Recent reports from key organisations and publications have highlighted significant harm resulting from the increased use of amphetamine-type stimulants in Australia , in particular, ‘ice’.

Relevant publications show an increase in the prevalence and purity of ice, and health professionals are reporting an increase in clients presenting with harm caused by using this substance:

New fact sheet

In response to increased demand for current evidence-based information about ice, the DrugInfo Clearinghouse has developed the following fact sheet for professionals and the community:

Ice fact sheet

Recent Australian research

Degenhardt, L. & Topp, L. (2003). ‘Crystal meth’ use among polydrug users in Sydney’s dance party subculture: characteristics, use patterns and associated harms. International Journal of Drug Policy 14, 17-24

Topp, L., Degenhardt, L., Kaye, S., & Darke, S. (2003). The emergence of potent forms of methamphetamine in Sydney, Australia: a case study of the IDRS as a strategic early warning system. Drug and Alcohol Review 21, 341-348.

Other 'ice' resources

Ice Fact Sheet (NDARC)

Amphetamine Type Substances fact sheet (ADCA)

Family Drug Help (Autumn 2003 newsletter)

Methamphetamine: a paper presented at the Australian Professional Society on Alcohol & other Drugs (APSAD) Conference 2002