Making methamphetamine (meth) is a chemical process that involves converting pseudoephedrine or ephedrine into the active drug. There are several methods, but they generally fall into two main categories:
1. The "P2P" Method (Industrial/Lab Scale)
This method starts with phenyl-2-propanone (P2P) rather than pseudoephedrine. It’s more common in large-scale labs because P2P is cheaper and easier to source in bulk.
Process: P2P is reacted with methylamine to form an intermediate, which is then reduced using sodium borohydride or hydrogen gas to produce methamphetamine.
Pros: Cheaper raw materials, scalable.
Cons: Requires precise temperature control; can produce impurities if not done carefully.
2. The "Ephedrine/Pseudoephedrine Reduction" Method (Street Lab)
This is the most common method for small-scale or clandestine labs (like those in movies). It uses over-the-counter cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine (e.g., Sudafed) or ephedrine as the starting material.
The "One-Pot" Method (Most Common Street Method)
This is the classic method you see in crime dramas. It’s fast, dirty, and dangerous.
Ingredients:
Pseudoephedrine tablets (crushed)
Ammonia (clear, household ammonia)
Toluene (paint thinner or nail polish remover – acts as a solvent)
Lithium strips (from batteries) or aluminum foil + iodine crystals
Vinegar or hydrochloric acid (to crystallize)
Water