amphetamines
WHAT ARE AMPHETAMINES?
Amphetamines are also known as 'speed', 'dexies', 'goey', 'whizz', 'ice', 'uppers', 'go', 'go fast' and 'zip'.
Amphetamines belong to the group of drugs called stimulants. Amphetamines have been used for medical purposes for a long time. In fact, they were used for the treatment of asthma and low blood pressure back in the 1930s. In recent times, their main medical use is the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Dicorder (ADHD or ADD). This medicication is also known as 'dexies'.
'Dexies' are a very common form of amphetamines sold on the street, but are sold inmuch higher doses than what is used to treat ADHD. A recent form of amphetamines on the street is 'ice'. 'Ice' is otherwise known as methamphetamine. It is the most recent form of amphetamines to reach Australia. As the name suggests it looks like small white ice crystals. Other forms that amphetamines can take include a white, beige or yellow powder, tablets or liquid capsules.
As with most other drugs, amphetamines sold on the street can be mixed with many other substances, making their effects even more harmful.
Amphetamines can be used in many different ways. They may be snorted, swallowed, injected or smoked.
The cost of amphetamines varies largely according to its purity. It may cost about $100 per gram for 'cut' (or mixed) amphetamines to $300 for the pure form.
THE EFFECTS OF AMPHETAMINES
Like all other drugs, the effects of amphetamines vary greatly in different circumstances. They depend on the characteristics of the user, such as mood, physical size, gender and personality. They depend on the drug itself, it's purity, the amount used and whether it is injected, smoked, swallowed or snorted. It also depends on the setting that the drug is taken.
Injecting amphetamines can result in some very dangerous health effects. It can cause a blockage of blood vessels (caused by powder particles not being properly filtered), which can cause major damage to the body's organs; inflammed blood vessels and abscesses; blood poisoning; bacterial infections which may damage the heart valves; vein collapse; infection at injection site; and bruising or more serious injuries if users inject into an artery or tissue.
Snorting is also very dangerous because it can damage the lining of the nose and nasal passage and produce burns and sores.
Some of the main side effects of amphetamines are listed below. These can vary depending on what other substances the heroin is 'cut' with.
The short term effects of small doses of amphetamines
Increased alertness
Exaggerated confidence and energy
Hyperactivity
Talkativeness
Reduced appetite
Inability to sleep
Increased rate of breathing
Increased pulse rate
Increased blood pressure
Enlarged pupils
Anxiety
Irritability
Suspiciousness
A threatening manner
Panic attacks
The short term effects of large doses of amphetamines
Sweating
Headaches
Pale skin
Restlessness
Dizziness
Feelings of being powerful or superior
Shaking
Repetitive movement
Irregular breathing
Very rapid or irregular heartbeat
Hostility
Aggression
Psychosis
The long term effects of amphetamines
Malnutrition
Reduced resistance to infection
Violence
Emotional disturbance
Psychosis
DEPENDENCY
Can users become dependent on amphetamines?
Yes, users can develop a psychological dependence to amphetamines, which means it becomes central to the persons life, and they find it difficult to function without it. Like other drugs, users can develop a tolerance to amphetamines which means it takes more of the drug to produce the desired effect. It is very hard to break a 'dependency' of amphetamines. Those trying to quit need a lot of support from their friends.
THE LAW
Is amphetamine use and/or possession illegal?
In Western Australia it is illegal to use, possess, manufacture or supply amphetamines. Penalties can be as high as $100 000 and/or a 25 year imprisonment. It is illegal to drive while under the influence of amphetamines.
SAFE PRACTICES
It is best not to use amphetamines at all. However, those who do should remember the following:
- Users should not be left alone in case they experience some bad side effects
- Call an ambulance as soon as you think someone is having bad side effects of the drug. If someone collapses and you know CPR, put them in the coma position and ensure teir airway is clear.
- Use clean syringes whenever injecting, and NEVER share needles. This reduces the risk of spreading deadly infections such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B. Many cities have special syringe exchange programs where users can leave their used syringes and pick up clean ones.
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