Amphetamines are drugs approved for the treatment of ADHD disorder. But they are also diverted from their therapeutic use and taken in the form of drugs (notably under the name of “speed”) with heavy side effects.
Amphetamines are synthetic products which act on the body as a very powerful stimulant which accelerates the activity of the central nervous system. Appeared in the 1930s , they have been used as a treatment for obesity (thanks to its appetite suppressant effects ) and depression (because of its psychostimulant properties ). However, the dangerous effects of amphetamines, and in particular dependence, have restricted its use. Nowadays, only dextro-amphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate and mixed amphetamine salts are manufactured for medicinal purposes, fortreat attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity ( ADHD ) in children and adults. The other amphetamines are all made in clandestine laboratories. In France, the consumption of amphetamines is mainly present in the techno party space, and in clubs and discos on a smaller scale. The average price of a gram of powder is around 15 euros . According to the OFDT, occasional consumption concerns around 3% of 18-34 year olds and only 0.3% of the French population aged 18-64 consumed it during the year.
use
Amphetamine is available in several forms with a generally bitter taste : powder and paste , (which are the most common), tablets and crystals . Their purity varies when manufacture is illegal. They can be injected, smoked, inhaled or ingested as tablets. The tablets may have logos similar to those on MDMA or ecstasy tablets, and they are often mixed with other drugs . When they are issued on medical prescription, their use is very restricted. Considered narcotics, prescriptionsare limited to 28 days.
Names
Amphetamines are a family that contains several chemicals: Amphetamine, Dextroamphetamine, Methamphetamine, Methylphenidate, Benzphetamine, Phendimetrazine, Dexfenfluramine, Diethylpropion, Fenfluramine, Pemoline and Phentermine. When used for illegal purposes, they are also called ” speed “, ” ice “, or ” crystal meth ” by their presentation in crystals, in particular for Methamphetamine which is particularly addictive.
Main and long-term side effects
The effects of amphetamines depend on how you use it. They are quite fast and generally last a few hours (6 to 30 hours depending on the molecule). When they are diverted from their use, it brings a euphoric and stimulating effect . They increase alertness, self-confidence, concentration and work capacity (they are also often diverted for this purpose by students or athletes for example). They limit the feeling of fatigue and hunger and reduce the need for sleep . Taking them regularly can lead to exhaustion of the body and mental disorders.
- After each intake, a descent phase which can last several days causes intense sadness,a feeling of empty head, physical and mental exhaustion and significant sleep disorders with insomnia. It is not uncommon for people to use other drugs like cannabis or anti-anxiety medications to help them overcome this condition.
- In the long term, regular consumption of amphetamines can be addictive, causingconsumers to use more and more often in order to feel better, relax and calm down. The risks of repeated heavy drinking are seizures (stiffness of the body and jerky and involuntary contractions of the muscles), dehydration , heart rhythm disturbances , high blood pressure , kidney failure, and overdose which can be fatal. The psychiatric consequences are just as serious with a risk of developing depression, paranoia, hallucinations or suicidal desires.
- In contrast, in hyperactive children, amphetamine drugs have calming effects when taken at the prescribed dose.
Effect on the brain
Amphetamines act on the central and peripheral nervous system (i.e. the brain and nerves) by releasing certain catecholamines, and in particular dopamine and norepinephrine. Their release increases with the dose of amphetamine used. In high doses, they also cause the release of serotonin in the brain. Thus they lead to an increase in the state of alertness and concentration, with loss of appetite and dependence.
Effect in the athlete
Some athletes may use amphetamines which give them a feeling of physical and mental power, a decrease in appetite and fatigue, an increase in alertness (ability to concentrate and pay attention) and a feeling of euphoria. However, the long-term risk is not only that of addiction, but also of dehydration and potentially life-threatening heart rhythm disturbances. It is for these reasons that the consumption of amphetamines is not recommended with physical activity.
Amphetamines remain in the body for a dozen hours.
Overdose: signs, what to do?
Consumption of amphetamines in large doses or very closely together can cause an overdose, that is, a potentially fatal overdose. The consumer then feels an acceleration of his breathing, profuse sweating, as well as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. The muscles tighten, which can lead to seizures. If such symptoms appear, you must call the emergency services, 15 or 112, for emergency medical care.
Signs of addiction
Amphetamines remain in the body for a dozen hours. However, the effects last only for a few hours, and stop while the drug is still present. This habituation effect contributes to the risk of dependence because the more the user consumes, the more he is obliged to increase the doses to have the same effect. The loss of control over consumption can then lead to problems on a personal, professional, relational, financial, legal level … Medical help is then necessary.
How to stop being dependent?
There is no pharmacological treatment for the symptoms associated with the use of ecstasy. When addiction sets in, treatment by an addictologist is recommended, whether in private practice, at the hospital or in a CSAPA (Centers for Care, Support and Prevention in Addictology). Anxiolytic treatment may be offered to help manage the phenomenon of descent and anxiety that has set in. Certain therapies such as CBT (Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy) have been proven in this type of addition.
My addictologist advice
The consumption of amphetamines is risky, even in healthy people. This is why it is best not to combine it with another medicine or drug, always start with the smallest dose and avoid taking it if you feel tired or depressed. It is also recommended to drink water regularly because of the risk of dehydration, and to wear light, loose clothing. It is best to always observe at least 24 hours between each dose. Do not hesitate to consult your doctor for a regular check-up.
