Your friend has a legal prescription for Adderall, so surely it can’t be too dangerous to borrow a pill from time to time… right? Wrong. Adderall, an amphetamine, is a central nervous system stimulant that is used to manage conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy. While amphetamines may be safe for your friend to use as prescribed, your desire to chase a high can result in dependency and a host of dangerous side effects. Without guidance from your physician, you are far more likely to use an unsafe amount that can result in a life-threatening addiction.
Amphetamine Addiction
Understanding Amphetamine Addiction
Amphetamines are synthetic drugs that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS)
Frequently Asked Questions About Amphetamine Addiction
Amphetamines are synthetic drugs that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS). Commonly prescribed brand names include Adderall, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine. These drugs are used to treat conditions such as narcolepsy and ADHD.
As a stimulant, these drugs can produce an effect similar to that of cocaine. Especially when used without a prescription and outside the guidance of a medical professional, amphetamines can elicit a high that can be physically and psychologically addictive. Because these drugs stimulate your CNS, effects include:
- Increased alertness
- Feelings of euphoria or excitement
- Increased attentiveness
- Increased ability to concentrate
These pleasant feelings can be addictive, but there are a wide range of dangerous side effects as well, including:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Hostility
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety
- Loss of appetite
- Teeth grinding
- Dizziness
- Increased or irregular heart rate
- High blood pressure
Amphetamines impact your central nervous system, and the effects on your heart (such as high blood pressure and increased or irregular heartbeat) can be fatal. Mixing amphetamines with alcohol increases the risk of harm and death. Even if you manage to avoid overdose, the long-term effects of chronic amphetamine abuse include:
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Violent behavior
- Intense cravings
- Respiratory problems
- And more
Amphetamine withdrawal isn’t easy and shouldn’t be attempted without medical supervision. Symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Nightmares
- Extremely strong cravings for amphetamines
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Violent behavior
Treatment of amphetamine addiction begins with medically supervised detox. Inpatient treatment provides amphetamine users the support they need as they focus on recovery and prepare for life beyond recovery. Proven therapies, such as CBT, combined with the social support of a 12 step program are a highly effective treatment method for amphetamine addiction.
How Hawaii Island Recovery Can Help You Recover from Amphetamine Addiction
At Hawaii Island Recovery, recovery from amphetamine addiction begins with a medically supervised detox to minimize withdrawal symptoms and increase the likelihood of a successful recovery. Residents then benefit from our multi-disciplinary, integrative treatment approach. We combine proven evidence-based interventions (such as CBT) with experiential therapies (such as dolphin assisted therapy) and holistic health (including yoga and massage). These therapies are administered within the framework of a 12-step program to give you or your loved one the tools needed for a full and lasting recovery.