Crystal Meth in Vancouver: British Columbia’s Fentanyl-Meth Co-Use Crisis

Crystal Meth in Vancouver: British Columbia’s Fentanyl-Meth Co-Use Crisis

Methamphetamine poses a severe drug threat in Vancouver, situated in a western region with high lifetime usage rates (7.3%). The city has seen **high methamphetamine loads** in wastewater and faces a significant public health challenge due to the co-use of crystal meth and fentanyl.

Regional Usage and Sourcing

• Usage Context:
Over 70% of participants accessing harm reduction in British Columbia reported crystal meth use. Vancouver has the **highest per-capita fentanyl loads** of major Canadian cities, followed by high methamphetamine loads.
• Sourcing:
The province is a major center for clandestine methamphetamine laboratories, with **20 labs dismantled** in one reporting period.
• Co-Use Threat:
Co-use with **fentanyl** is high (47.2% to 69.1% of users), significantly increasing overdose risk.

Severe Health and Social Consequences

Methamphetamine abuse creates severe harms, including a high risk of contracting infectious diseases.

• Physical Harms:
Meth use can cause heart attack, stroke, and sudden cardiac death, even in young users. Overdose symptoms include psychosis, rapid heart rate, and liver/kidney failure.
• Psychological Harms:
Users may experience psychosis, paranoia, violent behavior, and permanent brain damage.
• Community Impact:
Increased crime, including property offenses and high-speed police pursuits, is associated with meth prevalence.

Legality and Penalties in Canada

Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA).

• Personal Possession (Indictable):
Maximum penalty is **seven years imprisonment**.
• Trafficking/Production (Indictable):
Maximum penalty is **life imprisonment**.
• First Offense (Summary Conviction):
May result in a fine up to $$1,000$ or imprisonment up to six months, or both.