Do you say pop, coke, or soda?
Whatever your choice is, these terms can mean the same thing depending on where you are or who you’re talking with. Just like “soft drinks” have local slang used to discuss them, the same is true with substances like methamphetamine.
So, what are the street names for meth?
There are over 1 million Arizona residents aged 12 and up who reported having a substance use disorder in the last year. Education on topics such as these helps not only lower stigma but also helps people recognize when they need access to care. That’s why our team at Wolf Creek Recovery will answer this question and more in today’s blog.
What Even is a Street Name and Why Are They Used?
In the context we’re talking about, a street name isn’t “Main Street” or “Hollywood Boulevard.” Street names are slang terms, or nicknames, specific to drugs. These names can vary from city to city and even person to person. They’re most commonly used to make sure you’re only communicating with people who are “in the know,” while making sure others don’t recognize what you’re discussing. This is especially true to hide from “the law” since the drugs in question are most often illegal in nature.
Recognizing Slang and Street Names Specific to Meth
There is a lot of documentation of known or previously used street names that related to meth, but the information we have available online isn’t all-inclusive. If every common street name was easy enough to identify through Google, they wouldn’t work very well as street names.
Additionally, some names may be niche to certain cities or even groups, and new names change all the time. With the internet, names that used to be only seen in specific countries may now spread across borders.
Here are some of the known street names for meth:
- Chalk
- Crank
- Crystal
- Glass
- Ice
- Shards
- Speed
- Rock
- Tick tick
How Texting and Emojis Have Changed Nicknames for Meth
The ease of texting and other forms of online communication have changed the world of street names to also include emojis. Texting makes it much easier to be covert but doesn’t fully negate the need for written nicknames.
Some of the known emojis that have been tied to meth include: 🔮, 💙, 💎, and 🧪.
Additionally, some emojis have been noted as being used for other forms of communication regarding substance use. Emojis can signal things like payment, where to meet up, if someone “has the goods,” and more.
Are There Terms Specific for Meth Mixed with Other Substances?
Some street names go beyond just the basic substance and can be specific to certain combinations of drugs, or even refer to how a drug is manufactured.
Here are some of the ones known that are specific to different types of meth.
- Bathtub Crank – meth produced in a bathtub
- Christmas Tree Meth – green meth made using Drano crystals
- Hot Ice/LA Ice/Quartz – smokeable meth
- Hydre – “high quality” meth
- Peanut Butter – brown meth
- Poor Man’s Speedball – heroin and meth
How to Spot a Street Name When It’s One You Haven’t Heard Before
As we mentioned, not all street names are thoroughly documented online, so if you hear something odd that isn’t on this list – how can you know if it’s a street name?
The most important thing to consider is the context. Are they lowering their voice? If you replaced the term with “meth” would the sentence still make sense? Were they trying to hide this conversation from you? What setting were you in when you heard them say it?
Google can also be your friend, of course, but always remember to check the source to make sure you’re getting information from someone reliable.
What Should You Do If You Hear Your Loved One Using Street Names for Meth?
If you hear your loved one using slang terms to talk about meth, it’s important to remember to stay calm. Approaching them with rage and judgment won’t produce the results you’d like. They’re more likely to shut down or even get mad back rather than be open to hearing your concerns and considering healing.
From there, remind them of your love and support. Tell them you want to see them live a long, happy, and healthy life. Offer help in looking into meth rehab options near you. You could even drive them to their first day.
Just remember, it’s never over. Healing is always an option.
Our team at Wolf Creek Recovery is here to help you with your recovery journey. Our dedicated team drives our program with compassion, integrity, and honesty. Our goal is to see you thrive and we’ll work with you where you are to make that happen. Give us a call today at 833-732-8202 and start building a life you love.
