Methamphetamine is an extremely addictive drug that causes the brain to release increased levels of dopamine which results in users experiencing an intense and euphoric high. Unlike many other types of illegal drugs, methamphetamine or meth can be produced by virtually anyone using a variety of household and other chemicals.
Amphetamine gained popularity during the 1960s and 1970s when it was commonly referred to as speed. Since that time, changes have been made to the chemical composition of the drug making it more potent and the high more intense. During the 1990s, the meth industry exploded in the U.S. with so-called meth cooks being carried out in abandoned buildings, industrial warehouses and residential homes.
In response, the U.S. government took steps to control and restrict the distribution of pseudoephedrine, the key ingredient used to produce meth which is readily found in cold medications. However, supplies of pseudoephedrine are still being smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico. As a result, the drug continues to be manufactured in home-grown labs and cookhouses throughout the U.S. and in states like Michigan.
According to the Kalamazoo Country Government website, as of Oct. 24, 2014, there were a total of 108 meth busts in the county this year. Frequently, such busts involve individuals who are in the throes of addiction to this dangerous and destructive drug.
Individuals who are facing drug charges related to the manufacturing of meth face harsh penalties including prison time, fines and restrictive probations. It's wise, therefore to contact a criminal defense attorney who can represent one's best interests in court.
In cases where an individual suffers from addiction, an attorney may be able to broker a deal that provides an individual with treatment in lieu of a prison sentence. In cases where an individual was found to possess materials or chemicals believed to be used for the manufacturing of meth, a defense attorney will work to refute allegations and evidence.
Source: PBS.org, "Frontline: Meth," 2015