Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Amphetamines are powerful stimulants that are highly addictive. Habitual, repeated use of amphetamines results in amphetamine addiction.

What is going on in the body?

Amphetamines excite the central nervous system. They cause an overall sense of well-being for 6 to 8 hours. This period is followed by agitation that can cause violent behavior. Repeated use increases an individual's tolerance to the drug. As tolerance builds, more of the drug is needed to achieve a desired effect by the user. Classic signs of addiction are present with amphetamine use. When the drug is stopped, withdrawal symptoms appear.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Risk factors for amphetamine addiction include the following:

being 12 to 25 years of age

frequent exposure to situations that encourage drug abuse

parental dependence on a mood-altering substance

peer pressure

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Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

Someone who is under the influence of amphetamines may show the following symptoms:

decreased appetite

decreased fatigue

euphoria

hyperthermia, or increased body temperature

increased activity and attention

increased breathing rate

A dependent individual may have the following symptoms:

decreased appetite and weight loss

disregard for consequences of negative behaviors

feelings of isolation

feelings of well-being

hallucinations

irritability and mood swings

legal problems

paranoia

ravenous appetite

recurrent failure to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home

sleep disorders

use of amphetamines when it is dangerous, such as while driving

Someone who is addicted to amphetamines may show the symptoms of dependence, as well as these additional symptoms:

anxiety

depression

excessive sweating

headache

lethargy and fatigue

muscle and stomach cramps

tremors

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Diagnosis & Tests

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis of amphetamine addiction begins with a medical history and physical exam. A urinalysis or blood tests will show if a person has used drugs.

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Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Education for those at risk is key. This should start during childhood. This way, healthy attitudes and knowledge of the risks can be learned at an early age. Parents who do not tolerate drug use can be a deterrent.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Amphetamine abuse causes long-term changes in the brain that interfere with memory and coordination. People who abuse amphetamines increase their risk of stroke. Other long-term effects of amphetamine abuse include:

being out of touch with reality

depression, leading to a high risk for suicide

exposure to HIV, the virus that causes AIDS

heart problems

hepatitis B and C from contaminated equipment

lead poisoning, from contaminants in the drug

malnutrition as a result of low food intake

paranoia

psychotic disorders

violent behavior

What are the risks to others?

Amphetamine use reduces judgment and impulse control. An abuser puts others at risk for accidents and emotional injury. Amphetamine use during pregnancy can cause complications before, during, and after delivery. A child born to a woman who is abusing amphetamines can have developmental problems.

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Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment begins by helping the person admit there is a problem. Overcoming an individual's denial of his or her amphetamine addiction is the first step. Treatment options include the following:

anxiety

depression

eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia

alcohol and drug abuse problems

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recovery programs to teach coping skills and life-management strategies

self-help groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous

There is no medication to treat amphetamine addiction. Abstinence from amphetamines is the key to a cure.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

There are no side effects to the treatment.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Those who complete treatment often continue with counseling or self-help groups.

How is the condition monitored?

The condition is monitored by the addicted person, significant others, and healthcare providers. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

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