Amphetamines are commonly abused stimulants which cause addiction that is difficult to treat, causes chronic relapse and may lead to death.

Description

Amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine, are collectively referred to as amphetamines. Their chemical properties and actions are so similar that even experienced users have difficulty knowing which drug they have taken. Amphetamines can be a beneficial part of an overall treatment plan for ADHD, narcolepsy, or other disorders. However, the abuse of these substances is currently very high and always very dangerous. Those who use amphetamines for purposes other than that which they were prescribed, have the potential of encountering many consequences including stimulant-induced psychosis, physical and psychological dependence, tolerance, addiction, and possibly even death.

The Effects

Amphetamines can have many effects on an individual including appetite suppression, “increased wakefulness, and increased focus and attention” (NIDA). While these effects may seem desirable, amphetamine drugs (especially in high doses) can also cause hallucinations, paranoia, mania, and in some cases stroke and heart attack leading to the user’s death.

People become addicted to amphetamines very quickly, whether they snort them, ingest them orally, or take them through another method. Many people start taking amphetamines desiring the effects they cause and end up with extremely dangerous side effects. And, because they become addicted so rapidly, they will often not be able to stop and will take more of the drug each time as a product of their tolerance to it.


Sources
Amphetamines.com. February 2016. View Source