Signs of Amphetamine Addiction
Amphetamine addiction is a serious condition that can affect individuals and their loved ones profoundly. Recognizing an addiction to amphetamines involves observing a range of physical, psychological, and behavioural changes. Amphetamines are stimulants, and their abuse can lead to significant alterations in a person’s health and lifestyle. Being aware of these signs can make a critical difference in addressing the problem before it escalates further.
What are amphetamines?
Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that affect the central nervous system. They increase activity in the brain, leading to heightened alertness, energy, and euphoria.
Amphetamine drugs are commonly prescribed for medical conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. However, they can also be obtained illegally and abused for their stimulating effects.
According to UK police, seizures of amphetamine is on a decline, however the number of seizures still remain excessively high – the drug was found and seized on 2,482 separate incidents in 2023. Amphetamines are still a popular recreational drug due to their perceived ability to enhance performance and induce a sense of well-being. Examples of amphetamine drugs include Adderall, Ritalin, Dexedrine, and methamphetamine (meth).
Physical Signs of Amphetamine Dependence
One of the most noticeable physical signs of amphetamine addiction is weight loss. Amphetamines are known to decrease appetite, leading to rapid weight loss in individuals who abuse them. Other physical signs may include dilated pupils, dry mouth, increased blood pressure and heart rate, difficulty sleeping, and excessive sweating. Physical signs are often the most noticeable indicators of amphetamine use and dependence.
These physical signs may include:
Rapid Weight Loss
Users often experience a decreased appetite, leading to significant and rapid weight loss.
Increased Energy and Hyperactivity
Excessive energy and inability to sit still are common.
Dilated Pupils
Enlarged pupils are a direct response to stimulant use.
Skin Problems
Users may develop sores or acne, often due to excessive scratching or picking at the skin.
Insomnia
Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep is a prevalent symptom.
Dental Issues
"Meth mouth" is a term used to describe severe dental problems associated with methamphetamine use.
Tremors and Muscle Spasms
Involuntary shaking or muscle twitching can occur.
Psychological signs of amphetamine addiction
Amphetamine use can also cause significant changes in an individual’s mental health. Common psychological symptoms of amphetamine addiction include irritability, agitation, paranoia, anxiety, and mood swings. As the drug wears off, users may experience a crash or a sudden onset of depression, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.
Long-term use of amphetamines can also lead to psychosis, characterised by delusions, hallucinations, and disorganised thinking.
Meta-analysis of 149 previous studies of psychological effects of amphetamine abuse carried out in Australia concluded that users have a high probability of psychosis, depression and a suicidal outcome.
Psychological changes can be equally indicative of amphetamine addiction. These may manifest as:
Anxiety and Paranoia
Users might become excessively anxious or paranoid.
Aggression and Irritability
Increased irritability and aggressive behaviour can be common.
Mood Swings
Dramatic shifts in mood, from euphoria to depression, are typical.
Hallucinations
Seeing or hearing things that aren't there can occur, especially with chronic use.
Psychosis
Severe cases may lead to a detachment from reality, characterised by delusional thinking.
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Behavioural and Social Consequences of Amphetamine Use
Behavioural changes are often the most apparent signs of amphetamine addiction. Individuals may become secretive about their drug use and exhibit risky behaviours to obtain or hide their drug supply.
They may also neglect responsibilities at work or school, experience financial difficulties due to spending money on drugs. Personality changes and social consequences can significantly impact an individual’s life and relationships. These signs include:
Neglecting Responsibilities
Failure to fulfill work, school, or home obligations.
Isolation
Withdrawing from family, friends, and social activities.
Secretive Behaviour
Increased secrecy about activities and whereabouts.
Financial Problems
Sudden financial issues due to spending money on drugs.
Legal Issues
Arrests or legal troubles related to drug possession or activities to obtain drugs.
Symptoms of Amphetamine Withdrawals
Withdrawal from amphetamines can be challenging and includes both physical and psychological symptoms:
Fatigue
Extreme tiredness and lack of energy.
Depression
Intense feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
Increased Appetite
A sudden return of appetite, often leading to overeating.
Sleep Disturbances
Issues such as insomnia or excessive sleeping.
Cravings
Strong urges to use amphetamines again.
Symptoms of Amphetamine Overdose
An overdose of amphetamines is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening. Although the OD rate is nowhere near as high as some of the more “popular” drugs, statistics show an alarming increase in Amphetamine-related deaths in England and Wales. The average number of lethal overdoses used to be 50 per year until 2015 when the figure increased sharply. Most recent stats from 2022 show 114 amphetamine-related deaths.
Signs of amphetamine OD include:
Chest Pain
Severe pain that may indicate heart problems.
Irregular Heartbeat
Rapid or abnormal heart rhythms.
High Fever
Elevated body temperature.
Seizures
Uncontrolled convulsions or fits.
Confusion
Severe disorientation or inability to think clearly.
Loss of Consciousness
Fainting or being unresponsive.
Treating Amphetamine Addiction
Treatment for amphetamine addiction involves a comprehensive approach, often requiring medical and psychological interventions. Key treatment strategies include:
Detoxification
Medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
Therapy
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other counselling methods to address the psychological aspects of addiction.
Support Groups
Participation in groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) for peer support.
Medication
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or co-occurring mental health conditions.
Lifestyle Changes
Encouraging healthy habits, such as regular exercise and nutrition, to support recovery.
Aftercare
Ongoing support to prevent relapse, including continued therapy and support group attendance.
Recognizing the signs of amphetamine addiction is the first step towards helping a loved one seek the necessary help. Early intervention can prevent the escalation of the problem and support the path to recovery.
