Amphetamine intake provides a short period of artificial euphoria. It also stimulates short term energy and increased activity. Both reactions are especially popular for partying. However, the serious side effects associated with the drug outweigh the positive effects by far.

Even during the first encounters with the drug, there are life threatening risks. Similar to harder drugs like crystal meth, the euphoric effect makes the user unusually receptive to social harmony and may lead to sexual abuse or the user being lured into other high risk situations. The increase in activity leads to things like dehydration (and sometimes over-hydration). Add to that the risk of overdosing on impure drugs and it can lead to death – in many cases medical help is sought too late to save the person.

The worst part is that it gets progressively harder to stop taking it. People continue to take it, even after it becomes clear to them that the drug is causing very serious problems. There are a multitude of consequences (see list of symptoms and signs below).

The risk of overdosing is always present, as users have no way of knowing the purity or concentration of a drug. This is further amplified by the risk of toxic bulking substances added to the drugs by dealers to artificially increase the volume and their profits.

Some dealers also mix in other drugs, in order to “enhance” the lure of the drug, but this leads to the users getting hooked on more (other) drugs. If medication is used during the afterlife period, when users still have traces of the drug in their blood, it can lead to interactive conflicts between the drug and the medication.

There are many, severe withdrawal symptoms when people try to reduce or stop taking it. The addictive nature of the drug makes it almost impossible for them to do this on their own, but with professional therapy.

More about treating prescription drug addiction in South Africa.

Symptoms and signs of amphetamine abuse

• False or uncharacteristic sense of euphoria and harmony.
• Elevated energy, increased activity, lack of fatigue.
• Increased body temperature, sweating, dehydration.
• Rapid breathing, shivering, nervousness.
• High level of fatigue (when initial effect wears off).
• Insomnia, sleep disorders.
• Lack of appetite, weight loss.
• Isolation, social problems, relationship problems.
• Problems with finances, school or employers, the law.
• Mood swings, hallucinations, paranoia and other psychotic disorders.
• Overdosing, convulsions, coma (and even death).

There are also other symptoms, but the above are the most common and can help you recognise amphetamine abuse before it’s too late to help. The symptoms vary from person to person, but if any of these main symptoms are present, the person may be a victim of amphetamine abuse.

Help and Treatment for Amphetamine Abuse

Many people turn to drugs to alleviate obstructive emotional sensitivities that they may not even be consciously aware of. The drugs alter their thoughts (and bodies) and boost their ability to enjoy things. The underlying sensitivities are not signs of weakness or poor character – it exists because of many genetic and environmental influences. Some of us are simply more affected than others. Fortunately, these emotions can be treated with the latest therapeutic methods, which have replaced the traditional treatments of the past.

Besides medical attention, treatment for amphetamine dependency requires behavioural therapy, including programs to ensure pragmatic handling of daily events upon completion of treatment and long term skills to fully enjoy life without any need for illegal drugs.

If you notice any signs of amphetamine abuse, or suspect drug abuse by someone you know, it’s time for action. Just dial the number at the top of this page for advice or a confidential interview with a qualified counselor.

At Recovery Direct you can have a chat with one of our professional therapists about how amphetamines affect you and your life, and about your options for getting help. Develop the skills to break free from the need for the drug and enjoy life fully, without the underlying emotional disorders that made them reach for the drug in the first place.