The History of Methamphetamine in New Zealand

Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth or P, saw a significant increase in usage in New Zealand between 1998 and 2001, with a nearly thousand percent rise. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the ease of manufacturing methamphetamine using pseudoephedrine found in cold and flu medicines. However, it's crucial to note that in the 1950s and 1960s, methamphetamine and amphetamines were widely available, even prescribed by doctors. It wasn't until 1975, with the Misuse of Drugs Act, which heavily regulated and restricted access to these substances. Despite the growing stigma surrounding methamphetamine use, its addictive nature and highly publicized negative consequences, tens of thousands of Kiwi adults continue to use it every year.