What Are Amphetamines?
Amphetamines are a class of stimulant drugs that speed up messages between the brain and body. They are often prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, but they can also be abused recreationally for a variety of reasons. Some people use them to improve their alertness and focus, while others use them to increase their energy and endurance. Amphetamines can also produce feelings of euphoria and increased sociability.
Amphetamines work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. While dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in motivation, reward, and movement, norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in alertness, attention, and the fight-or-flight response. The constant usage of amphetamines can lead to severe amphetamine addiction.
Common Short-Term Effects of Amphetamine Use
When amphetamines are taken, they cause a surge of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This can lead to the following short-term effects:
- Increased energy
- Improved alertness and focus
- Reduced fatigue
- Increased motivation
- Talkativeness
- Decreased appetite
- Euphoria
What are the Long-Term Effects of Heavy Amphetamine Use?
It is important to understand the various long-term effects of amphetamine addiction to identify the problem early and seek prompt help. Amphetamine addiction, particularly to a powerful drug like amphetamines, is a complex and difficult challenge to overcome. However, with the right support, access to appropriate treatment, and the knowledge to make informed decisions, individuals can embark on a path leading to long-term recovery from amphetamine addiction.
Heavy amphetamine use can lead to a number of serious long-term effects, including:
- Addiction: Amphetamines are highly addictive drugs. People who use amphetamines regularly may develop a tolerance to the drug, meaning they need to take higher doses to achieve the same effects. They may also experience cravings for the drug and difficulty controlling their use.
- Cardiovascular problems: Amphetamines can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Heavy amphetamine use can put people at risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
- Psychosis: Amphetamines can cause psychosis, a mental condition characterized by delusions and hallucinations. Psychosis can be severe and disabling, and it may require hospitalization.
- Cognitive impairment: Heavy amphetamine use can lead to problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. These cognitive impairments can interfere with work, school, and relationships.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Amphetamines can suppress appetite and make it difficult to eat a healthy diet. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies, such as malnutrition, dehydration, and vitamin deficiencies.
- Social isolation: People who abuse amphetamines may withdraw from social activities and relationships. This social isolation can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.
- Financial problems: Amphetamine addiction can be expensive. People who abuse amphetamines may spend a lot of money on the drug or on related activities, such as gambling and partying. This can lead to financial problems, such as debt and bankruptcy.
- Legal problems: Amphetamine abuse is illegal in most countries. People who are caught with amphetamines or who abuse the drug may face legal consequences, such as arrest, fines, and jail time.
Signs and Symptoms of Amphetamine Withdrawal
Amphetamine withdrawal can be severe and can last for several weeks. It is important for people who are withdrawing from amphetamines to seek professional help in order to manage their symptoms and prevent relapse.
When people who are addicted to amphetamines stop using them, they may experience a number of withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Cravings
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
How Amphetamine Overdose Looks Like
An amphetamine overdose can be fatal. If you think someone has overdosed on amphetamines, it is important to call 911 immediately. Some of the signs and symptoms of an amphetamine overdose include:
- Very high body temperature
- Rapid heart rate
- Hypertension
- Seizures
- Coma
What are the Amphetamine Addiction Treatment Options?
Amphetamine addiction can be treated effectively. Treatment typically commences with medical detox to safely withdraw the individual from amphetamines. Once detoxified, various treatment options are available, including:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): PHP is ideal for individuals with severe amphetamine addiction, providing comprehensive therapy, medical support, and psychiatric care while allowing them to return home in the evenings.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): IOP is suitable for those with mild to moderate addiction seeking ongoing support. It involves multiple weekly therapy sessions to address the challenges of amphetamine addiction while accommodating daily life demands.
- Sober Living: This program is perfect for individuals who have completed primary amphetamine addiction treatment and need continued support. Sober living homes provide a transitional step toward independence.
In addition to these amphetamine addiction treatment programs, counseling can help individuals identify and address the underlying causes of their addiction and develop coping skills for relapse prevention. Our experienced recovery coaches can assist you in overcoming this complex substance abuse issue through therapy sessions.
Amphetamine Addiction Rehab in Dallas at Lighthouse Recovery Texas
If you or someone you know is struggling with amphetamine addiction, there is hope. Our addiction treatment facility in Dallas, TX offers a comprehensive amphetamine addiction treatment program, including PHP and IOP levels of care, individual and family therapy, sober living, and relapse prevention. Our team can help you understand your insurance coverage before starting your treatment.
We recognize that amphetamine addiction is a serious issue, but we also believe that recovery is achievable. We are committed to assisting you or your loved one in taking the initial steps toward a healthier future. Contact us today to get started!
