California is considering opening up safe injection sites to help reduce rising overdose deaths. This is only part of the long-term solution to California’s drug epidemic.
Are you curious about some of the drugs involved? Amphetamines and methamphetamines are two powerful stimulants you may have heard about. They have a keen potential for misuse and abuse.
It’s crucial to understand the difference between these substances. Keep reading to learn the details of amphetamine vs. methamphetamine. We’ll touch on their side effects, addiction characteristics, recovery solutions, and more.
Types of Drugs
Do you want to truly understand the specifics of amphetamines and methamphetamines? If so, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of what these drugs are.
You should also know where they belong in the broader landscape of substances.
Amphetamines Are Energizing Medications
Amphetamines stimulate the central nervous system most of all. Doctors often prescribe them to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and similar disorders.
The drug increases dopamine and norepinephrine releases, among other neurotransmitters. Heightened neurotransmitter activity can lead to better alertness, enhanced energy levels, and other benefits.
Commonly prescribed amphetamines include Adderall and Ritalin. These medications are dosed with the utmost care. Doing this helps reduce the risk of misuse.
Methamphetamines Are a More Potent Cousin
Methamphetamines are a much more potent and dangerous variant of amphetamines. Methamphetamines are synthetic stimulant drugs. They affect the central nervous system more profoundly.
Methamphetamine is sometimes called “meth” or “crystal.” Medical professionals don’t usually prescribe it for prolonged use.
It’s illegal in the United States. This is because it has a slippery slope toward outright abuse. It can come with both severe psychological and physical dependence.
Glimpse into the Abyss of Methamphetamine Addiction
The line between recreational methamphetamine use and addiction can be quite thin.
Understanding the dangers of methamphetamine addiction is essential. That way, you’ll recognize how this drug can destroy a person’s life.
Rapid Tolerance and Escalating Use
Methamphetamines can produce extreme euphoria and greater energy levels. This is one of the main reasons people seek out this drug.
One of the most concerning aspects of methamphetamine use involves quick tolerance. This means that people often find themselves needing more and more of the drug.
If they stick to a low amount, they won’t get the effects they want. This fact leads to escalating use and a higher risk of overdose.
Physical and Psychological Consequences
Methamphetamine addiction is associated with many physical and psychological consequences.
These can include severe dental issues, skin problems, and mood disturbances. It can even cause psychosis.
Users may experience paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions. These experiences can be quite distressing and challenging to manage.
Social and Economic Impact
Methamphetamine addiction can have a hugely negative impact on a person’s social and economic well-being.
This drug obsession can wreak havoc on your life responsibilities. The same is true for your relationships and employment. This often results in job loss, tense family dynamics, and even legal troubles.
High Risk of Overdose
The high risk of overdose underscores the dangers of methamphetamine addiction. Methamphetamine overdoses can lead to severe health complications. This includes cardiac arrest, stroke, and death.
The messy nature of addiction can make it difficult for users to find safe dosages. This further increases the likelihood of overdose.
A Closer Look at Amphetamine Side Effects
Amphetamines are not without their own set of side effects. This is true even if healthcare providers prescribe them for medical conditions.
Understanding these side effects is crucial for people who get amphetamine prescriptions.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects may include increased heart rate, higher blood pressure, dry mouth, and restlessness.
Some people may also experience difficulty sleeping or appetite loss.
Less Common But Still Serious Side Effects
Less common ones may include chest pain and shortness of breath. You could experience mood changes, such as agitation or even aggression.
You may also exhibit uncontrolled movements and tics like vocal outbursts.
Potential for Abuse
One key concern with amphetamines is the potential for misuse and abuse. This can happen even when they’re prescribed for medical reasons.
Some people may take higher doses than prescribed or use them in ways other than intended.
The History of Amphetamines and Methamphetamines
Amphetamines were first made in the late 19th century. Still, people only discovered their stimulating properties in the early 20th century.
These drugs gained popularity during World War II. Soldiers used them to increase alertness and reduce fatigue.
Methamphetamines came about in the early 20th century and gained widespread use later on. Regulation of these dangerous drugs started after the increasing awareness of the potential for abuse and harm.
Legal Status and Regulation
The legal status of amphetamines and methamphetamines varies from one country to another. In the United States, amphetamines are classified as Schedule II controlled substances. This means they have certain legal medical uses despite a high potential for abuse.
Methamphetamines are also Schedule II substances. They face stricter regulations due to their greater potential for harm.
Treatment and Recovery
Are you struggling with addicted to drugs? There’s hope in the form of treatment and recovery programs.
Treatment may include medical detox and behavioral therapies. There’s also the possibility of support groups.
The goal is to help people overcome the hurdles of addiction. That way, you can develop the skills to live a life free of drugs.
Recovery is an ongoing process. It often involves a combination of professional support and personal commitment.
It’s crucial to emphasize that recovery is possible. Many people have successfully overcome amphetamine and methamphetamine addiction.
Medical Detoxification
Medical detoxification is the first crucial step.
Detox involves the safe removal of these substances from the person’s body. Professionals know how to address the physical aspects of withdrawal.
Qualified medical professionals should supervise the process. They should have specific experience in addiction medicine.
They can keep an eye on the person’s vital signs and help them manage withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, they can even provide medications to ease discomfort.
Amphetamine and methamphetamine withdrawal can be challenging. Symptoms may include depression, fatigue, intense cravings, and appetite changes. Medical detox helps people cope with these symptoms and prevent complications.
The length of a given detox varies. It can depend on addiction severity, a person’s general health, and other factors. With that in mind, detox may last a few days to a couple of weeks.
Detoxification should also address any co-occurring mental health disorders or medical issues. Comprehensive assessment and treatment are essential.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral therapies are fundamental to addiction treatment. They help people understand their patterns of drug use.
They can learn effective coping strategies. This will help them stay away from drugs for good. Several therapeutic approaches are effective in treating amphetamine and methamphetamine addiction.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help addicts pinpoint and change their negative thought patterns. The same is true for behaviors associated with drug use. This treatment focuses on building coping skills, problem-solving, and relapse prevention.
Contingency management uses a reward system to encourage people to stay drug-free. It reinforces positive behaviors, such as attending treatment sessions and passing drug tests.
Motivational enhancement therapy can help people engage in treatment and make positive changes. It involves setting goals and developing a personalized recovery plan.
Family therapy can help improve communication and handle conflicts. It creates a supportive environment for recovery.
Support Groups
Support groups are a valuable aspect of recovery from amphetamine and methamphetamine addiction. These groups offer a deeper sense of community and peer support.
Narcotics Anonymous is a 12-step program. It follows a similar structure to Alcoholics Anonymous.
It gives a framework for people to work through their addiction. That way, they can find support through regular meetings.
SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training. It’s a science-based program that emphasizes self-empowerment and self-reliance. It offers tools and strategies for managing addiction and building a balanced life.
Dual Recovery Anonymous is tailored to people who are managing both substance use disorders and mental health challenges. It can nurture a supportive environment for those with co-occurring disorders.
With the rise of the internet and digital tech, many support groups now offer online and virtual meetings. This makes it more accessible for those who can’t attend in-person sessions.
Harm Reduction and Education
Harm reduction strategies help lessen the negative consequences of drug use. This helps even when going drug-free isn’t immediately possible.
Educational programs can raise awareness about the risks associated with these substances.
They’ll promote responsible use when prescribed by healthcare providers. They’ll also discourage recreational or non-medical use.
Now You Can Distinguish Between Amphetamine vs. Methamphetamine
Knowing the difference between amphetamine vs. methamphetamine is the first step. After that, it’s important to seek recovery from a reputable clinic.
You can find care and solace at Reflections in Marin County, California. We realize that drugs can be a life-or-death situation. That’s why Reflections’ clinical professionals are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Are you prepared to recover from your amphetamine or meth addiction? Ask a Reflections representative about our treatment programs today.
