Amphetamine Addiction

Amphetamine addiction is caused by habitual and ongoing use of amphetamines. Amphetamines are powerful stimulants and they are very addictive.

Amphetamine Addiction, How does it affect the body?

Amphetamine addiction develops because amphetamines excite the central nervous system, which becomes addicted to the excitement. Amphetamine use creates an overall sense of well-being. This "well-being" lasts for various amounts of time, depending on which amphetamine is used and how it is administered (injected, smoked, or snorted). After the well-being stage often follow agitation, which can lead to violent behavior.

Amphetamine addiction develops after repeated use raises the body's tolerance to the drug. As one's tolerance rises, more and more of the drug is required to achieve the high desired by the user. The usual symptoms of addiction are present with amphetamine use. When one ceases using amphetamines, withdrawal symptoms appear.

Signs and Symptoms of Amphetamine Addiction

Amphetamine addiction develops after a person has used the drug for a while. A person using amphetamines may display the following symptoms:

• • decreased appetite
• • increased energy
• • euphoria
• • hyperthermia, or raised body temperature
• • increased activity and attention
• • increased breathing rate

A person dependent on amphetamines may display the following symptoms:

• • decreased appetite and weight loss
• • disregard for consequences of negative behaviors
• • feelings of isolation
• • feelings of well-being
• • hallucinations
• • irritability and mood swings
• • legal problems
• • paranoia
• • ravenous appetite
• • recurrent failure to complete responsibilities at work, school, or home
• • sleep disorders
• • use of amphetamines which endanger a person, such as while driving

Amphetamine addiction causes a person to display the symptoms of dependence, and also these additional symptoms:

• • anxiety
• • depression
• • excessive sweating
• • headache
• • lethargy and fatigue
• • muscle and stomach cramps
• • tremors

What Factors Increase one's risk of Amphetamine Addiction?

Amphetamine addiction is more likely when a person:

• *is between 12 to 25 years old
• *has frequent exposure to situations that encourage drug abuse
• *has parents who are dependent on a mood-altering substance
• *faces ongoing peer pressure.

Amphetimine Addiction Prevention

Amphetamine addiction can be prevented by educating the people at risk. This education should start during childhood. This develops knowledge and healthy attitudes towards the risks at an early age, before there are temptations. Parents who refuse to tolerate drug abuse can serve as a deterrent.

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