Amphetamines Fact Sheet 

Amphetamines are classed as central nervous system stimulants and tend to increase alertness and physical activity. They include three closely related drugs - amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine. Amphetamines are used medically for treatment of conditions such as narcolepsy (sleep disorder) and Attention Deficit Disorders.

Amphetamines can be taken orally, injected, inhaled, or smoked. Forms used include Dexedrine, Benzedrine, Desoxyn, Methampetamine (Ice), and Ritalin. "Look alikes" are also being manufactured to look like and mimic the effects of amphetamines. They usually contain varying amounts of caffeine, ephedrine and phenylpropanolamine and are often found in over-the-counter preparations such as diet pills and decongestants. New "act alikes" containing the same ingredients of "look alikes" are being sold on the street as "speed" and "uppers" although they are not as strong as amphetamines.

• increased alertness and talkativeness

• feelings of self-confidence and power

• increased blood pressure, pulse and respiration

• diminished appetite

• irritability and aggression

• reduction of need for sleep

• feelings of enhanced socialibility, sexuality

Depending on the amount used, they include:

• dilated pupils, blurred vision
• over activity, talkativeness
• obsessive, repetitive activity
• insomnia
• pallor or flushing of face
• tremors, loss of coordination
• headache
• paranoia, psychosis

All stimulants carry a high risk of psychological and possibly physical dependence. Amphetamines may cause heart failure, coma or death. Regular use may create a person who becomes aggressive, paranoid and very suspicious. Suicide risk is high among addicted individuals. Long term use produces permanent damage to teeth, bones, lungs, liver and kidneys.

Other impacts include:

• malnutrition
• skin disorders
• ulcers
• diseases caused by vitamin deficiencies
• weight loss
• depression
• speech and thought disturbances
• hallucinations, delusions
• sexual disinterest

People who stop using amphetamines abruptly may experience:

• crash (extended period of sleep and exhaustion)

• fatigue

• irritability

• hunger

• depression

• convulsions

• delirium

• black beauties

• uppers

• speed

• ice

• crank

• white crosses

• meth

• crystal

• glass

• bennies

• dexes

Drug Dependency Services, Central Region, 1999