Gaps in the ice: Methamphetamine in Australia; its history, treatment, and ramifications for users and their families

Abstract

It is now well-established that Australia has a significant issue with methamphetamine. Recent dramatic changes in manufacturing have led to significant shifts in both the patterns of use and the relative purity of this illicit drug, with the crystalline form of methamphetamine commonly referred to as 'ice'. Excessive use not only impacts on those taking the drug, but also takes a heavy toll on their families. With few effective treatment options currently available, there is a strong focus on developing replacement pharmacotherapies and examining the efficacy of outpatient counselling and residential treatment options. Recent research in addiction care supports the positive impact that families of users can have on both treatment and recovery for their loved ones. Despite this recognition, there is little current research looking at the experiences of families of users of the uniquely problematic drug methamphetamine. This paper outlines the historical narrative that has led to the current worldwide phenomenon of ice use and explores contemporary directions of research into its impact and potential treatments. In doing so, it outlines the relatively unexplored impact of ice on families and highlights a current need for nursing research into their experiences living with loved ones using the drug.

Detection of Cutting Agents in Drug‐Positive Seized Exhibits within the United States

“…With regard to cocaine, purity has fluctuated between 6.2% and 98% in Australia, Europe, and United States . For amphetamine and methamphetamine, data collected in the same countries have shown fluctuation from 1% to 44% and 3% to 83%, respectively , while 3,4‐methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) and/or 3,4‐methlyenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) purity in Europe has ranged from 62% to 79% .…”

Cessation strategies used successfully by individuals in recovery from methamphetamine addiction

“…Long-term use can cause anxiety, depression, and damage to the nervous system and susceptibility to infectious disease. The lack of sleep can induce drug psychosis, and intravenous use increases the risk of contracting diseases such as HIV/ AIDS (Gordon & De Jong, 2018). Users can have occasional episodes of sudden and violent behaviour, intense paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations.…”

A Systematic Literature Review and Narrative Synthesis of Effective Interventions for Family and Caregivers of People who use Methamphetamine

“…Interventions are needed that address the specific concerns of caregivers of people who use methamphetamine. Unfortunately, support services and interventions for family members and friends of people using methamphetamine are sparse 14 …”

“…Unfortunately, support services and interventions for family members and friends of people using methamphetamine are sparse. 14 Most intervention studies for substance use problems focus directly on the person engaging in substance use. Those that focus on caregivers are designed for a variety of alcohol and other substance use problems, are not necessarily specific to methamphetamine, and usually prioritize the caregiver's role in supporting the person using methamphetamine rather than providing support to the caregiver.…”