Paul, snorting was the most frequently reported route of administration, whereas in Honolulu smoking was predominant. California and Mexico-based criminal organizations have been supplying methamphetamine to other areas of the country through trafficking networks used for other drugs. Once established in an area, methamphetamine labs tend to proliferate. Most of the 32 chemicals that are used to produce the drug in various ways can be easily obtained through commercial sources or by clandestine production. The drug is produced primarily in residences or such settings as motels, trailers, and vans.
Producers move locations periodically to avoid detection.
Nevertheless, seizures of labs are relatively common. Paul, it was reported that there were increasing numbers of portable labs locally but that methamphetamine was primarily coming from Mexico. The local labs produce only small quantities of methamphetamine, ranging from one ounce to one pound. Some new patterns of methamphetamine abuse were reported. Ethnographic research in Atlanta reveals very high levels of HIV risk behaviors among meth abusers who tend to share needles and engage in unprotected sex.