Many methamphetamine labs are in home environments that are also home to children. The article discusses the deleterious effects on children of living in an environment characterized by drug use and the physical dangers inherent in drug labs. The author begins by discussing the history of methamphetamine use and its chemical components. Also discussed is the way in which methamphetamine is manufactured from easily obtainable chemicals, such as cold tablets and drain cleaner, and equipment such as aluminum foil and hotplates. The author presents information about how the drug works on the central nervous system and how it is ingested. Finally, the author turns to a discussion of how methamphetamine use and production can harm children. First, drug addicted parents are at high risk for neglecting or abusing their children. They are often not emotionally available to care for their children properly. Secondly, there are physical risks associated with living in a methamphetamine lab, such as exposure to toxic chemicals and discarded needles. Furthermore, although there are risks associated with living with drug addicted parents, there are also risks involved with removing children to foster care. Serious emotional problems may results from removing children from their caregivers; this is especially a concern for children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. In conclusion, children who have been living in methamphetamine labs will have a myriad of health care and psychological needs which must be attended to by a team of professionals, most notably of which is the forensic nurse. References