There are signs to look for amphetamine abuse
Amphetamine abuse is the improper use of amphetamine or amphetamine containing drugs for the purpose of getting high. In many cases, amphetamine abuse begins with a legitimate prescription that a user takes being abused due to an increase in amphetamine tolerance which leads to greater problems. Amphetamine abuse doesn’t always begin with a desire to use amphetamines recreationally and often results from a user simply taking the drug in a manner in which it is not prescribed such as taking amphetamine more often or taking a larger dose.
Unlike amphetamine addiction, amphetamine abuse does not include physical or psychological dependence but it can lead to these symptoms. People who abuse amphetamine may first begin taking a prescribed dose more often than they are supposed to or they may take more of a dose than they are prescribed. This could be in an effort to feel the effects of the drug or to feel better—regardless of the reason wrongful use of amphetamine does imply amphetamine abuse.
Signs of Amphetamine Abuse
There are a number of signs that could arise when an individual is abusing amphetamine or amphetamine containing drugs. Initially, the signs of amphetamine abuse may be rather mild and not so easy to spot but as the abusive use of the drugs carries on, these signs will likely become much more clear.
- Taking more than is prescribed
- Taking doses more often than prescribed
- Not feeling the effects of the drug and using more of it to accommodate the tolerance that has developed
- Running out of a prescription before you are supposed to
- Taking amphetamines to get “high”
Many of these signs are not immediately noticed but you will realize in time that maybe you ran out a prescription before you should have or that you are taking doses more often than you used to—these are both signs of potential amphetamine abuse.
Side Effects of Amphetamine Abuse
If you or someone you know is abusing amphetamines, there are some side effects that may appear. Using amphetamine can lead to a number of side effects including:
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Hallucinations
- Sleep deprivation
- Irregular heartbeat
- Stomach upset
- Heart attacks and stroke
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
Amphetamine abuse that continues or is sustained for a prolonged period of time will lead to dependence which is also called addiction. This dependence may be both physical and psychological in scope and can be difficult to treat. If you know someone who is abusing amphetamine regularly or who has abused amphetamine, call our helpline at 800-820-1143 (Who Answers?) to talk to a counselor who can help.