Methamphetamine Abuse in Oregon
This state is eligible to apply for the Rural Law Enforcement Methamphetamine Initiative.
Learn more about the initiative or apply now.
DEA Assessment:
- Methamphetamine is one of the most widely abused controlled substances in Oregon.
- Crystal "ice" methamphetamine is increasing in availability and is the exclusive type of methamphetamine available in central Oregon.
- In the greater Portland area a rise in syphilis cases accompanied the popularity of crystal methamphetamine and health officials fear it may fuel a surge in HIV infections.1
Methamphetamine Use among State Population (2002-2005):
10% of persons aged 12 or older reported using meth one or more times during their life.2
3.6% of young adults aged 18-25 reported past year methamphetamine use.
1.2% of persons aged 12 or older reported past year methamphetamine use.3
Drug Offenses:
56% of 2005 Federal Drug Cases in Oregon involved methamphetamine.4
Lab Incidents:
There were 57 lab incidents in 2006.5
Treatment Admissions for Methamphetamine Abuse:
9,563 treatment admissions for methamphetamine/amphetamine abuse in 2005;
21% of all drug abuse treatment admissions.6
State Laws Pertaining to Precursor Chemicals:
A person commits the crime of unlawful distribution if the person sells or otherwise transfers EPH, PSE or PPA products in violation of board rules or more than 9 grams to a person other than a veterinarian, physician, pharmacist, retail distributor, wholesaler, manufacturer, warehouseman or common carrier in the regular course of lawful business activities; EPH, PSE and PPA sales and transaction records are subject to inspection by the State Board of Pharmacy and law enforcement agencies. Transaction records shall be forwarded to the Department of State Police if directed to do so by the department; the Board of Pharmacy may adopt rules placing requirements and limitations on the sale or transfer of PSE, EPH and PPA containing.7