Excess use of anything is simply an abuse whether it is alcohol, drugs, or even medicines. Often we have seen people relying on pills to relieve their stress, or to get a peaceful sleep. People with serious medical conditions may need to use the medications, however, without doctors’ prescription it is just an abuse. Many health risks are associated with these drugs, which are diagnosed at a later stage. One of the most commonly abused drugs is Amphetamine.
What Is Amphetamine?
Amphetamine is a drug that stimulates the central nervous system. This drug is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and extreme obesity. It is also used in the treatment of depression.
Symptoms and Effects
Amphetamine abuse is becoming a major challenge around the world. Taking the pills orally for health purposes is acceptable, but some people are crushing it and snorting it to get the high effect immediately. Another way people are abusing amphetamine is injecting it into the body. To know if you or anyone you know is abusing amphetamine, look at the following signs:
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Anxiety, stress, mood swings
- Hallucinations and paranoia
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Less interest in other activities
- Aggression
Treatment for Amphetamine Abuse
There are several methods used for amphetamine abuse treatment.
Medication for Amphetamine:
There is a misconception that medicines cannot help get rid of the addiction. It is like having another addiction to get rid of one, which is not true. Medicines can help in resolving withdrawal and psychological symptoms. However, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved any medicine to treat amphetamine addiction. Some healthcare professionals do prescribe over-the-counter drugs such as hydroxyzine, Benzodiazepines, Baclofen, Antabuse, and Norpramin.
Therapies or Counselling Sessions
We have often heard that communication is the solution to every problem. It applies in the treatment of amphetamine abuse. Therapies and counselling sessions are arranged by the healthcare professionals to understand the psychology of the addicts. Once the healthcare professionals get into the root of the mental and emotional cause, it is easy for them to carry on the therapy treatment. Some common therapies conducted are:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Motivational Therapy
- Contingency Management
Rehabilitation Centers
Rehab centers are considered costly yet effective for many addicts. People who are at high level of addiction are recommended to join rehab centers. Medicines, therapies and aftercare treatment is offered in rehab centers. There are two types of rehab patients: Inpatient and Outpatient.
Inpatient Treatment: The patient is admitted to the rehab center and is under observation for 24 hours. The stay can last up to 90 days.
Outpatient Treatment: You are not required to stay at the rehab center, however, you are required to attend the outpatient centre at least once a week. People who have been through inpatient treatment, but still require more care are usually the ones opting for outpatient treatment.
Amphetamine abuse treatment is essential if an individual is addicted to the drug. Any type of addiction can possess a serious threat to life. It is important to consult your primary care physician if you feel any symptoms of addiction. Prevention is better than cure. Always ensure to ask your pharmacist before taking any medicine whether it is prescribed or over-the-counter.
