The struggle with amphetamines is the reality that some types are actually legal. People are aware of the dangers regarding illegal synthetic drugs, however, legal medications are also risky. There are many medications that are either amphetamines or contain amphetamine. Some of the drugs available in the US are banned in other countries due to high risks. These medications are prescribed by doctors and should be taken under careful supervision by a trained medical professional. These drugs can easily be abused, both intentionally and unintentionally. Being aware of these drugs and what they do can help us avoid misuse of amphetamines.
People are more familiar with the illegal synthetic substance methamphetamine, also known as ice, crystal, meth, or crystal meth. This drug is agreed to be the most addictive drug causing neurological damage. The molecular structure of this drug enables it to affect the brain nearly instantaneously. It’s an extremely high risk drug because of its long-term brain damaging effects. This damage may not be reversible, even after recovery. Death is also a potential reality for methamphetamine abusers. Therefore, it is highly dangerous.
This substance is a stimulant influencing the central nervous system. We can find this in the pharmaceutical drug Adderall. This stimulant is approved by the US FDA as a prescription drug used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Adderall is commonly abused by college students who take it for a boost of concentration, staying up late writing papers, and focused studying. Not only does this drug increase concentration, but alertness and weight loss as well. This makes it appealing to many people. There is a significant amount of warnings issued regarding the potential abuse and misuse of Adderall. This is another medication that should be taken under supervision by a doctor.
RITALIN AND CONCERTA
These are brand names for methylphenidate. These are other drugs used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It’s also prescribed by the US FDA and must used under supervision of a trained doctor.
We find this stimulant used in products that treat breathing issues such as asthma, allergies, and sinus congestion. Interestly, this is a major ingredient in methamphetamine which is illegal.
DANGERS OF AMPHETAMINES
These are only a few types of amphetamines, but they all have serious health risks, regardless if they’re legal or not. Amphetamines increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be serious or even fatal. It increases the risk of heart disease due to arterial blockage, restricting blood flow and causing damage to heart tissues. Amphetamines are also known to increase the risk of creating cerebrovascular problems and stroke. There’s an increased danger in mixing amphetamines with alcohol, opioids/cocaine, etc.
CROWNVIEW CO-OCCURRING INSTITUTE
If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, please contact Crownview Co-Occurring Institute to get in touch with a medical professional who can set up an individualized treatment plan to help get your life back on track.