Amphetamine Addiction

Amphetamines are synthetic stimulants which are used for both medical conditions and various forms of amphetamine abuse. Medically, amphetamines like Ritalin and Adderall are often prescribed for conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy as they help to improve focus and increase energy.
Despite these genuine and often life-changing benefits, amphetamine abuse is common both in the UK and worldwide with individuals crushing amphetamine pills, snorting them or taking them in high doses without a prescription. This can be for a pleasurable high, to stay awake and alert for long study sessions or for performance enhancement in athletic or professional fields.
Amphetamines work by triggering the overproduction of chemicals like dopamine in the brain which is what makes them medically effective. However, this same mechanism is also the reason that creates the potential for amphetamine abuse and addiction. This potential has led to amphetamines being classified as Class B substances in the UK, rising to Class A if prepared for injection.

While physical dependence is predominantly the result of amphetamine’s neurotransmitter spiking effects, there are various factors which contribute to the development of a psychological reliance and the resulting addiction. These include:

• A genetic history of substance abuse or addiction in your family – The result of an inherited predisposition to addiction
• Using amphetamines for stress relief or to manage mental health symptoms – Often initially effective but quickly leading to addiction
• Easy access to amphetamines – From either prescriptions or illegal sources
• High-pressure professional or educational responsibilities – Resulting in using amphetamine for increased focus, performance or energy
• A misunderstanding of the potential for amphetamine abuse and addiction – Leading to amphetamine abuse without medical guidance or supervision
• A social group or company culture where drug use is common – Leading to peer pressure or amphetamine use to fit

Amphetamine addiction can present itself in a variety of ways and recognising common signs can go a long way to beginning the recovery process. While these amphetamine symptoms are not definitive, many individuals will usually exhibit one or more of the following signs:

• Engaging in risky or spontaneous actions due to amphetamine influence
• Rapid speech or difficulty staying calm or sitting still
• Significant reduction in appetite linked to amphetamine abuse
• Persistent feelings of anxiety or stress exacerbated by amphetamines
• Unusual irritability, anger or other behavioural changes
• Suspicion or paranoia without a clear reason
• Running out of amphetamine prescriptions early
• Obtaining amphetamines illegally
  Continuing to use amphetamines in spite of the above issues

Amphetamine abuse and addiction in the UK is a growing concern, especially among young adults. The number of deaths in England and Wales due to amphetamines has grown year on year since 1993 reaching 114 deaths in 2022, the highest since records began. These individuals include a mixture of both prescription and recreational amphetamine users, highlighting the importance of responsible prescribing practices, drug enforcement efforts and effective and accessible drug addiction treatment services.

One of the major dangers of amphetamine addiction is the increased risk of overdose. Amphetamine overdose is a serious medical condition that can result from high doses, polydrug use and poor overall health affecting the ability to process the drugs. Amphetamine overdose symptoms include:

• Excessive agitation or restlessness
• Confusion
• Chest pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• High fever
• Heavy sweating
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Death

If you spot any of these symptoms it is crucial to seek medical help right away and provide respondents with as much information as possible.

Amphetamine addiction treatment involves a structured, evidence-based approach combining medical, psychological and social support. At UKAT London Clinic, this begins with detox, a crucial first step where our medical team guides you through amphetamine withdrawal safely to address the physical dependence that has developed.

Once physical dependence has been broken and your brain and body are beginning to heal, UKAT London Clinic will then work with you to create a personalised rehab treatment plan. This will combine various traditional and holistic therapies which address the psychological components of addiction. Our expert therapists and counsellors will help you choose the best therapies for your unique needs, with treatment plans scheduled at times that suit you.

UKAT London Clinic then offers bespoke aftercare services for every client through exclusive therapy groups and personalised counselling. This ensures robust, ongoing support once your primary treatment plan has ended to help you maintain an amphetamine-free life and return to your personal and professional life with renewed confidence.

If you or a loved one is facing amphetamine addiction, UKAT London Clinic is here to provide discreet, expert support. Our dedicated team offers personalised care in our private central London recovery centre where your every need will be catered for. Contact us today and begin your path to recovery with our compassionate, industry-leading care.