Amphetamine Abuse

Description

Amphetamine (Methamphetamine) is a powerful stimulant that can cause a euphoric feeling in some users and goes by the street names "speed", "meth" and "chalk". The drug is very addictive and abuse leads to memory loss, aggression, psychotic behavior, heart damage, malnutrition, and severe dental problems. Amphetamines can be taken by mouth, smoked, injected, or inhaled. The chronic user can suffer severe psychological and medical damage.

Symptoms

Excitement, increased confidence, raised blood pressure, pupil dilation, sweating, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, irritability, psychotic symptoms, aggression, violence, seizures, fever, paranoia, hallucinations, severe anxiety, depression, suicide, exhaustion, malnutrition.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional lab tests may be done to rule out organ damage.

Treatment

Depends on severity of symptoms but can include antipsychotics (haloperidol), benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam) and intravenous fluids. Psychological counseling for addiction is often warranted. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.

Related Images

Related Videos

Amphetamine Drug!!STOP DRUG ABUSE!!!!!!

Amphetamine Drug!!...

Dr. Grant Colfax Interview

Many of NIDA's top grantees studying the link betwe...

Research

News