Drug addiction can start with experimental use of a recreational drug in social situations, and, for some people, the drug use becomes more frequent. For others, particularly with opioids, drug addiction begins when they take prescribed medicines or receive them from others who have prescriptions. If you suspect yourself or a loved one of an addiction, do not wait to seek the help of professionals who specialize in the treatment of drug and alcohol abuse. All these common substances also increase the chance of developing an addiction for either substance, or in some cases, both. The state of being addicted to two drugs at once is referred to Drug rehabilitation as dual addiction. One of the most recognized demographics for using amphetamines are college students, who notoriously misuse an amphetamine called Adderall.
Signs & Symptoms of Amphetamine Overdose
The need to abuse the drug takes precedence over relationships that previously held importance to them. Due to the fact that they all belong to the same group, many amphetamine drugs share similar effects. If a relative or loved one is suspected to be abusing amphetamine drugs, there are some symptoms or signs that may be able to be observed. A person who consistently abuses the drug may develop tolerance, which means they need to increase the dose to achieve the same effect. Amphetamine Addiction This can be dangerous as larger amounts of the drug have more toxic effects on the body.
The History of Adderall
This is why it is important to address addiction to amphetamine drugs before it is too late. Understanding the symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal is essential for providing effective support during the recovery process. Rehabs UK’s comprehensive approach encompasses tailored treatment plans and ongoing support to address these challenges. Supporting a loved one through amphetamine addiction requires patience, understanding, and access to resources.
Who is most at risk of amphetamine addiction?
If you do recognise these signs in someone, be sure to approach them with empathy and understanding. Withdrawal symptoms from amphetamines can be severe, and individuals need support rather than judgment when they run the risk of addiction. Other red flags include weight loss, appetite changes, depression, and sleep disturbances like insomnia or staying awake for unnaturally long periods.
Medical Professionals
Recreational amphetamine abuse can involve taking amphetamines that have been prescribed for someone else, buying them illegally or making them at home. As with prescription amphetamines, recreational amphetamine abuse can quickly lead to amphetamine addiction as tolerance builds and larger doses are needed to get the same effect. One of the most crucial warning signs is when a user continues taking amphetamines even though their drug use harms their life. For example, it’s causing poor physical and mental health outcomes, a lack of performance at work or school, or it’s ruining relationships. Rehab clinics offer a structured recovery environment, often with a combination of individual and group therapies, medical care, and support in developing new skills and habits. The major long-term effects of amphetamine addiction include serious harm to the cardiovascular and neurological systems, increased risk of heart disease, and cognitive decline.
When they’re used over prolonged periods, it can increase the likelihood of the person developing psychological and health problems. Overdose risk is substantially increased when amphetamines are used with other drugs or alcohol. Abusing amphetamines with other drugs is extremely risky, and the majority of amphetamine-related overdose deaths involve another drug or alcohol. Some individuals start using amphetamines through a legitimate prescription from a healthcare provider to treat specific health issues. Others may begin using these drugs to self-medicate personal problems or out of sheer curiosity.
Understanding these contributing factors can be the first step toward addressing amphetamine abuse and seeking effective treatment. A person should seek professional help if they have concerns about their mental health. Everyone’s journey with recovery is different, but asking a healthcare professional, family member, or friend for help is usually the first step.
Barbiturates, benzodiazepines and hypnotics are prescription central nervous system depressants. They’re often used and misused in search for a sense of relaxation or a desire to “switch off” or forget stress-related thoughts or feelings. Synthetic cannabinoids, also called K2 or Spice, are sprayed on dried herbs and then smoked, but can be prepared as an herbal tea.
Adderall is a prescription amphetamine typically used to treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sleep disorders like narcolepsy. It is also used for cognitive enhancement, athletic performance, and appetite suppression, as well as recreationally as an aphrodisiac and euphoriant. Known also as a “brain booster” or “study drug,” Adderall is widely consumed by college and university students to help them focus and cope with high academic demands. Drug addiction is a complex condition characterized by compulsive use of substances despite harmful consequences, often with physical and psychological dependence. The transition from voluntary to compulsive use indicates the deeply rooted impact on brain function, making control over the addiction difficult. Amphetamine addiction is treated through a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, counseling, and rehabilitation programs.
Common Relapse Triggers
- It can damage your relationships, hurt your finances and affect your work or studies.
- Withdrawal symptoms are a common consequence of discontinuing the use of any physically addictive drug, including amphetamines.
- Amphetamines have several brand names, such as Adderall®, VyvanseTM, Concerta® and Dexedrine®; they can also be referred to as Desoxyn®.
- On a psychological level, depression, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, aggression as well as anxiety, and mood swings have been reported along with potential sexual dysfunction.
Rapid mood swings, including periods of intense agitation or hostility, are clear signs of speed use. These mood shifts can strain relationships, leading to further social isolation. If you see your loved one associating with a different crowd or experiencing conflicts with long-standing friends, it could be linked to their speed use. The drug often pushes people to change their social landscape, avoiding non-users. This article will explore the symptoms of speed use and what to do if you or someone you know needs help to overcome an amphetamine addiction.
As rates of addiction and overdose increased, medical groups warned about hypertension, heart failure, seizure risk, and nose damage from repeated use. Treating amphetamine addiction can be done by employing psychosocial and pharmacological interventions. Treatment programs are also available to accommodate individuals struggling with amphetamine abuse.