Gateway Drug

Gateway Drugs

Gateway drugs predispose the user to using other drugs. Mackenzie and Heischober (1997) found that many young people admit to a continuum of use beginning with coffee, then over the counter energy or stay awake pills, and finally methamphetamine. Competitive high school athletes, commonly self administer over the counter stimulants. Later, they switch to methamphetamine, acting on misinformation from teammates or coaches that it is “just a little bit stronger”. Children who are prescribed the amphetamines (Ritalin, Adderall, Cylert or Dexedrine) for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder often discover the abuse potential for themselves or others. In endemic areas it is not unusual to find 13 to 15 year old girls using meth as an appetite suppressant.

The 2005 Montana Youth Risk Behavior Survey highlighted risk behavior differences between Meth users and non-users. The survey found that Meth abusing students used alcohol, tobacco, marijauna and sniffed glue at often twice the rate of non Meth users. The study also found that sexual activity, fighting and attempted suicide were increased in Meth users. Finally, Meth users were more likely to think that their body weight was about right.