Methamphetamines may never have earned the title major public health menace if they weren't cheap, easily accessible, fast-acting, and extremely addictive. Halkitis (psychology and public health, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York U.) presents a comprehensive look at the methamphetamine epidemic, the biochemistry of the drug, predispositions and behavior patterns of users, and the drug's effects on the user's immediate and winder social environments. The book also examines prevention efforts and treatment for methamphetamine addiction. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)