Methamphetamine Abuse in Alabama
DEA Assessment:
- Methamphetamine has become the biggest drug threat in Alabama.
- The gaining popularity of methamphetamine abuse in small towns and communities is directly responsible for the increase in thefts, violent assaults, and burglaries.1
Methamphetamine Use among State Population (2002-2005):
3.2% of persons aged 12 or older reported using meth one or more times during their life.
2.8% of young adults aged 18-25 reported past year methamphetamine use.
0.8% of persons aged 12 or older reported past year methamphetamine use.
Methamphetamine Use among High School Students (2005):
7.3% of students reported using methamphetamine one or more times during their life.4
Drug Offenses:
32% of 2005 Federal Drug Cases in Alabama involved methamphetamine.5
Lab Incidents:
There were 147 lab incidents in 2006.6
Treatment Admissions for Methamphetamine Abuse:
1,450 treatment admissions for methamphetamine/amphetamine abuse in 2005;
10% of all drug abuse treatment admissions.7
State Laws Pertaining to Precursor Chemicals:
Sales limited to no more than 2 packages / 6 grams per transaction of pseudo ephedrine and ephedrine; Products whose sole active ingredient is ephedrine or pseudo ephedrine in strength of 30 mg. or more per tablet cannot be offered for retail sale loose in bottles – may only be sold in blister packages; Sales to persons under 18 years prohibited; Purchaser to provide photographic ID; Purchaser must sign special electronic or paper register; A copy of the special register shall be maintained by the retail establishment for a minimum of 180 days; Products with PSE and EPH as sole active ingredient must be placed behind a counter.8