Amphetamines: what are the effects of this drug?

Amphetamine has stimulating and anorectic properties. Used therapeutically in the past, amphetamine is no longer prescribed except in cases ofhyperactivity in children and adultsonly by hospital specialists. In France, the consumption ofamphetamines as a drug is mainly present in the techno party space, and in clubs and discos on a lesser scale. According to the French Observatory of Drugs and Addictive Tendencies (OFDT), the occasional consumption of amphetamines concerns approximately 4% of 26-34 year olds and 1.9% of 18-24 year olds and only 0.3% of the French population aged 18-64 consumed it during the year. It most often comes in the form of powder. What are the effects of amphetamines? At the sportsman? How are amphetamines taken? What to do in case of addiction amphetamines?

Definition: what are amphetamines?

Amphetamines are synthetic products which act on the body as a very powerful stimulant which accelerates the activity of the central nervous system. Appeared over the years 1930they were used as obesity treatment (thanks to its appetite suppressant effects) and some depression (because of his psychostimulant properties). However, the dangerous effects of amphetamines, and in particular addiction, have restricted their use. Today, only dextro-amphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate and mixed amphetamine salts are manufactured for medical purposes, for treat attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) in children and adults. The other amphetamines are all manufactured in clandestine laboratories.

Amphetamine is available in several forms with a generally bitter taste : powder And dough(which are the most common), compressed And crystals. Their purity varies when manufacturing is illegal. They can be injected, smoked, inhaled or ingested in the form of tablets. The tablets may feature logos similar to those on the tablets of MDMA or ecstasyit is also common for them to be mixed with other drugs. When they are delivered on medical prescription, their use is very supervised. Considered narcotics, prescriptions are of one duration limited to 28 days.

List of amphetamines

Amphetamines are a family that contains several chemicals :

• Amphetamine
• Dextroamphetamine
• Methamphetamine
• Methylphenidate
• Benzphetamine
• Phendimetrazine
• Dexfenfluramine
• Diethylpropion
• Fenfluramine
• Pemoline
• Phentermine

When used for illegal purposes, they are also called “speed“, “ice cream“, Or “crystal meth“by their presentation in crystals, in particular for Methamphetamine which is particularly addictive.

What are the effects of amphetamines?

The effects of amphetamines depend on the mode of consumption. They are quite fast and generally last a few hours (6 to 30 hours depending on the molecule). When they are diverted from their use, it brings a euphoric and stimulating effect. They increase alertness, self-confidence, concentration and work capacity (they are also often diverted for this purpose by students or athletes for example). They reduce feelings of fatigue and hunger and decrease the need for sleep. Taking them regularly can cause exhaustion of the body and mental disorders.

► After each shot, a descent phase that can last several days leads to intense sadness, a feeling of empty head, physical and mental exhaustion and significant sleep disorders with insomnia. It is not uncommon for users to use other drugs such as cannabis or anti-anxiety medications to help overcome this condition.

► In the long term, regular use of amphetamines can cause addiction which pushes the consumer to consume more and more often to feel better, relax and calm down. The risks of repeated heavy consumption are seizures (stiffness of the body and jerky and involuntary contractions of the muscles), a dehydrationof the heart rhythm disordersa high blood pressure, kidney failure, and overdose can be fatal. The psychiatric consequences are just as serious with a risk of developing depression, paranoia, hallucinations or suicidal thoughts.

► Amphetamines act on the central and peripheral nervous system (i.e. brain and nerves) by releasing certain catecholamines, and in particular dopamine and norepinephrine. Their release increases with the dose of amphetamine used. In high doses, they also cause the release of serotonin in the brain. This is how they lead an increase in alertness and concentration, with loss of appetite and dependence.

► On the other hand, in hyperactive children amphetamine drugs have calming effects when taken at the prescribed dose.

What are the effects of amphetamines in athletes?

Some athletes may resort to amphetamines which provide them with feeling of physical and mental powerdecreased appetite and fatigue, increased alertness (ability to concentrate and pay attention) and a feeling of euphoria (we are talking about doping among professional athletes). However, the long-term risk is not only that of addiction, but also of dehydration and life-threatening heart rhythm disorders. It is for these reasons that the use of amphetamines is not recommended with physical activity.

What is the price of amphetamines?

The average price of one gram of powder is around 15 euros.

Amphetamines remain in the body for about twelve hours.

What are the signs of an amphetamine overdose?

Consumption of amphetamines in large doses or very close together can cause an overdose, that is to say a potentially fatal overdose. The consumer then feels a rapid breathing, profuse sweating, as well as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The muscles tense up, which can lead to convulsions. If such symptoms appear, you must call the emergency services, 15 or 112, for emergency medical treatment.

What is the risk of amphetamine addiction?

Amphetamines remain in the body for a dozen hours. However, the effects only last for a few hours, and stop while the drug is still present. This habituation effect contributes to the risk of dependence because the more the user consumes it, the more he is obliged to increase the doses to have the same effect. Loss of control over consumption can then lead to problems on a personal, professional, relational, financial, legal level… Medical help is then necessary.

What to do in case of amphetamine addiction?

There is no no pharmacological treatment symptoms associated with amphetamine use. When addiction sets in, treatment by an addiction specialist is recommended, whether in private practice, in a hospital or in a CSAPA (Centres for Care, Support and Prevention in Addictology). Anxiolytic treatment can be offered to help manage the descent phenomenon and the anxiety that has set in. Certain therapies such as CBT (Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy) have proven themselves in this type of addition.

The use of amphetamines is risky, including in healthy people. That is why it is better to ne not associate it with another medicine or another drug, always start with the smallest dose and avoid taking it if you feel tired or depressed. It is also recommended to drink water regularly because of the risk of dehydration, and wear light, loose clothing. It is best toalways observe at least 24 hours between each dose. Do not hesitate to consult your doctor for a regular check-up.