Ecstasy and Amphetamines

The world has now seen a large increase in the consumption of synthetic drugs such as Amphetamine-type Stimulants (ATS), and other "promise it all" drugs, such as flying saucer and disco biscuit. This report analyses the size and nature of the emerging ATS threat, and explores what society can do to overcome the problem globally. It provides key information such as the origins of these drugs, trends in their use worldwide and the threat that they pose to man. Production of ATS is estimated at just over 500 tons a year, with more than 40 million people using them in the last year (approx. 1 per cent of the world population aged 15 and above, though use among younger people is greatest). The survey reports a growing supply and spreading abuse, and highlights the role of profit as a market-maker. It details reported health hazards, and describes patterns and trends for various regions of the world.