Crystal Meth in Winnipeg: Manitoba’s High-Meth-Use Market

Crystal Meth in Winnipeg: Manitoba’s High-Meth-Use Market

Methamphetamine poses a severe drug threat. While specific wastewater data for Winnipeg was not provided in the survey, the city is geographically positioned in a region (the prairies) often associated with high methamphetamine prevalence and drug-related crime.

Regional Usage and Sourcing

• Usage Context:
Methamphetamine use is a significant issue in the prairie provinces, with high rates of abuse and associated social harms.
• Sourcing:
The drug is produced in clandestine labs operated by organized crime, with some methamphetamine produced in Canada intended for international markets, but also supplying growing domestic demand.
• Co-Use Threat:
The combination of meth with high-risk opioids is a major public health concern across Western Canada.

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 assault and property offenses, is associated with the erratic, aggressive, and paranoid state of methamphetamine users.

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.