Legal status of methamphetamine

Legal status of methamphetamine is a topic that pertains to the laws and regulations surrounding the use, possession, and distribution of methamphetamine, a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug. The legal status of methamphetamine varies widely across different countries and jurisdictions, reflecting differing societal attitudes towards drug use and differing approaches to drug control policy.

Overview

Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug with more rapid and lasting effects than amphetamine, used illegally as a stimulant and as a prescription drug to treat narcolepsy and maintain blood pressure. In many jurisdictions, methamphetamine is classified as a controlled substance, which means that its manufacture, distribution, and use are subject to strict legal controls.

Legal status by country

United States

In the United States, methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that while the drug has a high potential for abuse and dependency, it also has accepted medical uses and can be prescribed by a doctor under certain circumstances. However, the non-medical use, possession, or distribution of methamphetamine is a criminal offense.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, methamphetamine is classified as a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This is the highest classification, reserved for drugs that are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Possession, distribution, or production of methamphetamine is a criminal offense.

Australia

In Australia, methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule 8 controlled drug under the Poisons Standard. This means that it is a controlled drug, the use of which is subject to strict legal controls. Possession, distribution, or manufacture of methamphetamine without a license is a criminal offense.

See also

• Drug policy
• Drug law
• Controlled Substances Act
• Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
• Poisons Standard