Cameron Douglas, 30 year old son of Academy Award winner Michael Douglas, was arrested in a crystal meth sting at the Gansevoort Hotel in NYC on July 28th. Cameron, an actor in his own right, was in 2003′s “It Runs in the Family” with his father and famous grandfather, Kirk Douglas. It has also been reported that Douglas was arrested in California in 2007 for cocaine possession.

Methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, speed, chalk, ice crystal, or glass, is a Schedule II drug (see below) similar in structure to the stimulant amphetamine. However, it is more powerful and has longer, more harmful effects on the central nervous system. It can be taken orally, intra-nasally (snorted), injected into a vein, or smoked. Likeamphetamine, methamphetaminecauses increased activity, wakefulness,talkativeness, decreased appetite,and a improved sense of well-being. It can also cause increased respiration, rapid or irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure and body temperature.

Studies have shown many adverse effects of long-term methamphetamines:

• High likelihood of addiction
• Reduced motor skills and impaired verbal learning
• Severe weight loss
• Severe dental problems (“meth mouth”
• Anxiety, confusion, mood disturbances, violent behavior
• Psychotic features including paranoia and hallucinations
• Increased risk of HIV and Hepatitis B & C

According to the Controlled Substances Act, a Schedule II drug is one that:

• Has a high potential for abuse.
• Has a currently accepted medical usein treatment in the United States or a currently accepted medical usewith severe restrictions.
• Abuse of the drug or other substances may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence

Treatment for meth addiction , as for other addictions, is complex and must consist of a combination of acute medical support as well as long term cognitive, behavioral, psychosocial and family counseling.