Pubdate: Mon, 26 Jan 2004
Source: Sidelines, The (TN Edu)
Copyright: 2004 Middle Tennessee State University
Contact:  http://www.mtsusidelines.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2861

METH HOTLINE PROVES NARCING ISN'T ALL BAD

In response to the growing drug problem in Tennessee, the Tennessee Bureau 
of Investigation now has MethWatch - a hotline for people to reports labs 
and sales of methamphetamines.

We support the TBI's efforts to run the meth labs into the ground. With 
Tennessee's rising meth problem, it's about time someone took a firm stand 
against the brain-killing stimulant and those who produce and sell the 
mind-altering substance.

Meth goes beyond the usual recreational drug consumption. Meth use can 
cause severe mental problems, including schizophrenia, not to mention 
studies indicate use of methamphetamines can permanently affect the brain, 
including the level of dopamine, a chemical that controls movement and 
emotional responses, including feelings of pleasure and pain.

Because meth is relatively easy to produce, meth labs are prevalent, 
especially in rural areas. Common ingredients include over-the-counter 
medication and cleaning supplies.

Though it seems obvious to us that ingesting this drug is a bad idea, its 
rising popularity, especially among people ages 18 to 23, indicates that 
not all drug users have our clarity of thought.

We at Sidelines are ready to take a stance against the illegal use and 
production of methamphetamines. Though we haven't always been supportive of 
anti-drug efforts, exceptions have to be made for drugs as dangerous as meth.

The highly-addictive substance permanently alters the brain, and withdrawal 
symptoms of meth users far surpass those of users of cocaine and other such 
drugs.

MethWatch provides citizens with a way to report suspicions of meth use as 
well as allowing vendors of pharmaceuticals to report those who purchase 
items that, incombination, could be used to manufacture methamphetamines.

Calls made to the 24-hour hotline will help both statewide and local 
officials in their efforts to end the meth epidemic in Tennessee. We 
encourage anyone suspicious of meth activity to take advantage of the hotline.

For more information on MethWatch, see "Statewide hotline in place to 
report meth activity, sale," page 3 in the State and Local News section.
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart