While methamphetamine and amphetamine have similarities, there are many differences between the two substances. Both of these drugs are stimulants which means they both create energy and a loss of appetite. In addition, the user experiences euphoria and a sense of confidence and increased self-esteem. However, methamphetamine is a far more dangerous drug because of its potential for addiction. Furthermore, the effects meth has on a person’s physical and emotional health are much worse than amphetamine’s effects.
Differences in Methamphetamine and Amphetamine
Physicians prescribe amphetamine for obesity, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), narcolepsy, and allergies. These drugs create a high that gives the user a feeling of increased energy and euphoria. However, methamphetamine creates a more intense high.
Although methamphetamine and amphetamine are both addictive, methamphetamine addiction happens much faster. When individuals abuse amphetamines without a prescription, they are usually in the form of a pill. On the other hand, methamphetamine is normally abused in a powder form or in a rock form when sold illegally on the streets.
Amphetamine Abuse
Some of the side effects of abusing amphetamines include:
- Dilated pupils
- Excessive talking
- Decreased appetite
- Headache
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Euphoria
- Increased body temperature
- Heart palpitations
- Paranoia
Abusing amphetamine for long periods of time can worsen and become more severe. Over a period of time, the abuser may experience behavioral changes, psychological issues, and psychosis.
Methamphetamine Abuse
Methamphetamine is an extremely popular drug of abuse today, especially crystal meth. This is an illegal form that is a synthetic drug and made in home labs. Uncommonly, methamphetamine is available as a prescription in a pill form. Many individuals crush the pill and snort it or mix it with water and inject it when abusing the drug. Most often, abusers smoke the synthetic form of this drug, known as crystal meth.
Some of the effects of abusing methamphetamine include:
- Changes to thought processes
- Behavioral changes
- Mood swings
- High body temperature
- Feelings of insects crawling on or under the skin
- Picking at the skin causing lesions and open sores
- Meth mouth (dental issues including cracked and rotting teeth)
There is an increased risk of overdose when abusing crystal meth. In fact, smoking a substance increases the speed at which the user feels the “high.” It is important to know, meth is a potent drug, so the risk of overdose is high even after only a few uses. Sadly, overdosing on meth can cause a stroke, heart attack, or permanent damage to other organs. And, any of these issues can be fatal.
Help for Methamphetamine and Amphetamine Addiction
Chronic methamphetamine and amphetamine abuse will definitely lead to addiction. Individuals who are addicted to methamphetamine and amphetamine and chronically abuse either substance have problems feeling any pleasure other than what the drug provides. This, in turn, causes more abuse of the drug. Withdrawal symptoms will occur if the abuser stops using the drug. Therefore, it is almost impossible for a user to stop using this drug on their own.
If you are struggling with an addiction to either of these two drugs, seek help from a reputable professional inpatient addiction treatment facility. With inpatient addiction treatment, you will go through the detoxification process in a safe manner. Additionally, staff members will keep you as comfortable as possible during your withdrawal from the toxins of the substance involved.
Contact New Beginnings Drug Rehab
Contact New Beginnings Drug Rehab to learn about a treatment program that will fit your needs and preferences. One of our informed representatives can answer any questions you may have about the many different treatment programs that we offer. Additionally, they can answer any questions or concerns you may have about our facility and our staff. Contact us today and start on the path to a new life of sobriety and well-being. You, too, can overcome addiction and return to a productive and happy life. In fact, you can feel even better than before.
- drugabuse.gov – What Are the Long-Term Effects of Methamphetamine Misuse?
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