What is Amphetamine?

Amphetamine is a powerful stimulant drug that accelerates the messages between your brain and body, making one feel more alert and focused. When not taken as prescribed, misused, or taken in large doses over time, amphetamines can be extremely dangerous. Caron Treatment Centers provides comprehensive treatment programs for individuals struggling with amphetamine use disorder to help them regain control of their lives.

The Pharmacology of Amphetamine

Amphetamine was first synthesized in 1887 by the German chemist, Lazar Edeleanu. It has long been used as a performance enhancer, particularly in athletics and other competitive endeavors. Amphetamines stimulate the central nervous system to increase alertness, focus, and concentration while decreasing fatigue.

Types of Amphetamines

Common prescription amphetamines include:

• Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine (Adderall®)

• Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine®)

• Lisdexamfetamine (VyvanseTM)

• Methamphetamine (Desoxyn®)

Medical Uses of Amphetamine

Amphetamines have many medically accepted uses, primarily as a treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, or obesity. It can also be used as an adjunct therapy for depression or to treat the symptoms of fatigue in cancer patients.

Side Effects of Amphetamines

Although amphetamines can be beneficial for short-term use, they carry several serious side effects. Common side effects include restlessness, insomnia, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Prolonged use may lead to dry mouth, irregular heartbeat, loss of appetite, weight loss, mood swings, paranoia, hallucinations, and dependence. Amphetamines can also increase the user’s heart rate leading to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems such as a heart attack.

Amphetamines Effect on the Brain

Amphetamines increase the levels of several neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are associated with pleasure, reward, focus, and motivation.

Risk of Amphetamine Dependence

Long-term drug use of Amphetamines can lead to physical and psychological dependence as the user becomes accustomed to the drug’s effects. It is important for individuals using amphetamines medicinally to monitor their usage to avoid developing a dependence. In addition, doctors should be consulted before abruptly ceasing the use of the drug as this may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as depression and anxiety.

Treatment for Substance Use Disorder

Treatment for amphetamine dependency typically involves a combination of pharmacological and psychological therapies. The first step is to manage the physical symptoms associated with withdrawal. This may involve medications to reduce cravings, help with sleep disturbances, or manage anxiety or depression. Once the physical symptoms have been managed, psychotherapy can then be used to address the underlying psychological issues that drove the user to Amphetamine use disorder in the first place.

Amphetamine Use Disorder Treatment with Caron Treatment Centers

At Caron Treatment Centers, our experienced and compassionate staff provides comprehensive treatment options for individuals struggling with amphetamine use disorder. We offer a continuum of care that includes detoxification, medical stabilization, intensive residential treatment, outpatient treatment, and aftercare services.