The Effects Of Amphetamine Abuse

Speed is the slang name for drugs in the amphetamine family. This sort of drug acts as a stimulant, and therefore creates feelings of alertness and being energetic. Amphetamines were originally developed to help soldiers stay awake during grueling combat operations, and were also briefly used in diet pills due to appetite suppressing properties. They still have medicinal uses such as treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but are often associated with substance abuse.

People take speed because it makes them feel excitable, outgoing and wide awake. It is frequently used by drug users for nights out, but is also popular among some people in high powered professions who are working demanding hours. The side effects can be very dangerous.

Although speed is taken to give users a burst of energy, the results of this can be very negative. Rather than feeling motivated, the person may feel very agitated and restless. This may tip into acute psychosis. As the effects of the drug wear off, it can trigger depression, aggression or irritability. Unlike many other types of recreational drugs, where the comedown only lasts a few hours, amphetamine effects can last for four or five days. You may also suffer from insomnia after taking the drug.

Amphetamines put a lot of strain on the heart, which means you can die from an overdose. It doesn't matter whether you were a first time user, or a long term addict - the risks are the same. Taking the drug is also highly risky if you have a heart condition or a history of high blood pressure.

People with an amphetamine addiction are also compromising their immune system, because the drug has implications for sleep and diet. Addicts are far more prone to coughs, colds and flu. The act of injecting the drug can also lead to infections or gangrene, if the needle isn't sterile.

Speak to your family doctor if you have an addiction to amphetamines.