Amphetamines, which are a class of stimulant-based drugs including methamphetamine, dextroamphetamine, and methylphenidate, have a long history and wide array of applications. These substances, which can be illicit or prescription-based, were first discovered in 1887 and induce a range of physical and psychological effects. Unfortunately, the misuse of these central nervous system-stimulants can also bring about a host of mental and physical issues, many of which can have a sizable impact on an individual’s short and long-term health.
Today Clear Behavioral Health will examine the risks associated with amphetamine use, with regard to both their addictive nature and the potential consequences of abuse. By better understanding the symptoms, side effects, and potential risks associated with this drug we can then shed light on the importance of seeking help and treatment for anyone struggling with their usage.
The History of Amphetamine and Its Applications
Amphetamines were first discovered in the late 1880s and synthesized in the late 1920s, rapidly gaining popularity for their stimulant-based effects. Typically utilized for medical purposes, such as treating conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), amphetamines can increase focus, alertness, and energy levels in populations struggling with both attention and somnolence-based issues, including narcolepsy.
Over time, however, their potential for misuse and addiction became apparent: during World War II both Allied and Axis forced experimented with amphetamines to enhance the energy and alertness levels of soldiers, despite increasing awareness of the drug’s negative health effects. Furthermore, prescription stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin began to be used recreationally during the latter half of the 20th Century, resulting in adverse effect that can include heart issues, memory loss, weight loss, and tremors.
Eventually, amphetamines also found their way into the illicit drug market as well. Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth and manufactured relatively inexpensively, quickly gained popularity due to its intense euphoric effects and widespread availability. However, since the high that meth produces is notably short-lived, many users end up taking repeated and frequent doses, placing them at risk for a host of issues including paranoia, the breakdown of muscle tissues, drug-induced psychosis, and long-term cognitive deterioration.
The illicit production, distribution, and usage of amphetamines have contributed to a significant increase in substance abuse issues and devastating consequences in countless communities. It’s previously been reported that nearly 5 million people over the age of 12 abused prescription amphetamine medication in the mid-2010s, and over 2.5 million people over the age of 12 reported using methamphetamine over the past year, according to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
Symptoms and Side Effects at Different Levels of Amphetamine Use
The symptoms and side effects of amphetamine use can vary depending on the level and duration of an individual’s consumption.
Mild Amphetamine Use:
- Increased alertness: Amphetamines stimulate the central nervous system, causing the body and brain to experience a surge of energy.
- Decreased appetite and weight loss: Amphetamines suppress the appetite, potentially leading to significant weight loss over time.
- Heightened focus and perceived productivity: The increased release of neurotransmitters in the brain can enhance focus and productivity in the short-term.
- Euphoria and elevated mood: Amphetamines can induce a sense of euphoria and intense feelings of well-being.
Moderate Amphetamine Use:
- Intensified symptoms of mild use: The effects mentioned above typically become more pronounced.
- Agitation, restlessness, and irritability: Prolonged, moderate amphetamine use can lead to increased feelings of agitation, restlessness, and irritability.
- Insomnia and disturbed sleep patterns: The stimulant effects of amphetamines interfere with normal sleep patterns.
- Impaired judgment and decision-making: Amphetamines can impair cognitive function, making it difficult to make rational decisions.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Amphetamines can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, placing additional strain on the cardiovascular system.
Heavy Amphetamine Use:
- Intensified symptoms: The symptoms mentioned above will become more severe.
- Paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions: Long-term, heavy amphetamine use can lead to psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions.
- Extreme weight loss and malnutrition: Prolonged appetite suppression and inadequate nutrition can result in severe weight loss and poor overall health.
- Dental problems: Methamphetamine, in particular, can cause significant dental problems due to poor oral hygiene and teeth grinding.
- Long-term cardiovascular issues: The excessive strain on the cardiovascular system can lead to severe problems, including irregular heart rhythms, high blood pressure, and even heart attacks.
- Increased risk of stroke and seizures: Amphetamines can increase the risk of stroke and seizures, particularly at higher doses or when combined with other substances.
- Psychosis and cognitive impairment: Prolonged heavy use of amphetamines, especially methamphetamine, can result in severe psychological symptoms, including psychosis, cognitive impairment, and changes in brain structure.
The Dangers of Stimulant Addiction
Amphetamines are highly-addictive substances, owing to their impact on the brain’s natural reward and pleasure centers. When amphetamines are ingested they stimulate the body’s release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These chemical messengers play an important role in regulating mood, motivation, and pleasure, along with heart rate and appetite.
When amphetamines are misused the brain becomes accustomed to this artificial flood of neurotransmitters and adjusts its functioning accordingly, lowering the body’s natural production of these vital chemicals. This process quickly leads to tolerance, requiring the user to ingest higher and higher doses of amphetamines to achieve the desired effects. Additionally, as the brain becomes reliant on amphetamines to maintain its neurotransmitter balance and sense of well-being, a user will likely experience withdrawal when they cut back or stop using, causing their neurotransmitter levels to plummet. Depression, fatigue,and nausea are all common symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal.
The Short-Term and Long-Term Risks of Amphetamine Use
Short-Term Risks:
- Increased risk of injury: The effects of amphetamines on cognition, judgment, and motor skills can increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and overall dangerous behavior.
- Cardiac abnormalities and heart attacks: Amphetamines can place significant stress on the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to cardiac abnormalities and, in severe cases, heart attacks.
- Psychiatric disturbances: Amphetamines can induce or exacerbate psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks, paranoia, psychosis, and mood swings.
- Potential for overdose: High doses of amphetamines, whether intentional or unintentional, can lead to overdose, resulting in life-threatening complications such as seizures, cardiac arrhythmia, and even death.
Long-Term Risks:
- Chronic heart problems: Prolonged amphetamine use can lead to chronic cardiovascular issues, including cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and increased risk of heart disease.
- Neurological damage and cognitive impairments: Heavy and prolonged use of amphetamines, particularly methamphetamine, can cause long-lasting changes in the brain, leading to neurological damage and cognitive impairments.
- Psychiatric disorders: Amphetamines can contribute to the development or worsening of psychiatric disorders such as depressive, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.
- Impaired immune system function: Chronic, long-term amphetamine use can compromise the functioning of the immune system, increasing the risk of infections and other serious health complications.
- Damaged relationships and social isolation: The behavioral and psychological effects of amphetamine use can strain relationships and lead to isolation.
- Legal consequences: Illicit use or possession of amphetamines can lead to legal issues, including arrests, fines, and potential imprisonment.
Seeking Help and Treatment
If you or someone you know is struggling with amphetamine use then seeking help and treatment is crucial for eventual recovery. A professional treatment center will offer a range of interventions to address amphetamine addiction, including:
- Detoxification: Safely managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
- Therapy: One-on-one therapy sessions with a qualified and licensed therapist can help explore the underlying issues contributing to amphetamine use and develop strategies for recovery, along with helping to address any potential co-occurring mental health issues that may be present.
- Group therapy: Group therapy provides a supportive environment where individuals can connect with peers, share experiences, and gain insights from others who are facing similar challenges.
- Support groups: Participating in support groups provides ongoing community and guidance for maintaining sobriety.
- Aftercare programs: Aftercare programs offer ongoing support, relapse prevention strategies, and resources to sustain long-term recovery after the initial phase of treatment has been completed.
Seeking help for amphetamine addiction is a courageous step taken toward a healthier and brighter future. If you or a loved one is struggling, the choice is clear—reach out to Clear Behavioral Health to discuss your available treatment options. We offer withdrawal management and inpatient rehab to help individuals stabilize as well as outpatient programs for ongoing support. Give us a call to start the journey towards recovery today.
