Crystal meth seizures in Sussex have steadily decreased over the past five years.

The number of arrests linked to the class A drug – made famous in the hit TV show Breaking Bad, about a terminally ill chemistry teacher who becomes a drugs baron – has gone down year on year since 2009.

A Freedom of Information request revealed that ten people were arrested in 2011, eight in 2012 and just five in the past year. In 2013 two of these people – both in Brighton – were also charged with dealing the drug.

In total since 2009, 34 people have been arrested for either possessing or supplying methamphetamine also known as crystal meth.

Despite the downward trend, Detective Chief Inspector Ali Eaton, warned against using the drug which she said could lead to “serious health problems”.

She said: “Methamphetamine is commonly referred to as ‘meth’ or ‘crystal meth’. Thankfully it is very uncommon in Sussex with only a small amount of seizures in the last five years.

“Sussex Police advise against anyone using methamphetamine. It is a class A drug and if convicted you could face up to seven years in jail with an unlimited fine, while people supplying could be jailed for life.”

Crystal meth is very addictive and gives a massive high to users who quickly become dependent.

Its use can lead to serious mental health problems.

Paranoia, kidney failure, violence, internal bleeding and less inhibited sexual behaviour, are among other reported side effects of the drug.

Other risks associated with the synthetic stimulant, which can be smoked or injected, include depression and tooth decay.

If you have any information about drugs misuse then contact police via 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.