Titled “Don’t Let Meth Take Hold”, the $100,000 campaign is based on research from University of South Australia associate professor Gabrielle Todd, who found meth is linked with a greater risk of developing Parkinson’s disease and can cause long-lasting changes in movement.

The research found these changes can occur after using meth just five times.

“Using methamphetamine, even just a few times, can lead to long-lasting effects on the body and it’s important to raise awareness of this in the community,” Todd said.

“Parts of the brain that are responsible for movement are particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of methamphetamine.

“The damage that methamphetamine causes can lead to movement problems and increases the risk of developing movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.”

The state government says it will print 20,000 ads – highlighting the long-term effects of minimal meth use – on the inside of pizza boxes sold at independent stores.

The ads, targeted at young people, will also feature on social media, online gaming platforms, pubs, clubs and restaurants, according to the state government.

“This campaign highlights just how dangerous methamphetamine can be – long after someone has stopped using it, even if that’s just a few times,” Health Minister Chris Picton said.

“Our Government is determined to reduce the devastating hold this insidious drug has on users, their families and the wider community.

“These messages will hit home and help strengthen our commitment to better rehabilitate users and support their loved ones, including opening up more drug and alcohol beds.”

The Hospital Research Foundation is funding the $100,000 advertising campaign, which is being run in partnership with Drug and Alcohol Services SA and UniSA.