Amphetamine Addiction

Amphetamine addiction doesn’t discriminate, even among the most successful in society. Often taken for increased productivity or performance, amphetamines can be incredibly addictive in a shockingly short amount of time with serious harm being inflicted on relationships, careers and health. Amphetamine addiction is a hidden struggle among many high-achievers, but UKAT London Clinic offers a discreet, luxurious haven where our expert team will help you overcome addiction and restore your personal and professional lives.

What are amphetamines?

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.

Amphetamine addiction explained

Amphetamine addiction can be defined as a compulsive need to use amphetamines despite knowing how harmful they are. Drug addiction disrupts normal brain function resulting in a loop of cravings and excessive usage that has a negative impact on physical health, emotional well-being and important responsibilities at home and work.

Amphetamine addiction stages can begin with recreational or prescription use which becomes more frequent and intense as tolerance builds. As the body is flooded with amphetamine-triggered neurotransmitters like dopamine, the brain stops producing the chemicals itself. If amphetamine use is then stopped, neurotransmitter levels drop dramatically, and the brain takes some time to begin producing them again. This causes amphetamine withdrawal symptoms, a sign of physical dependence, which often result in relapse.

Psychologically, the individual can become dependent on the pleasurable high, performance-enhancement or stress-relieving properties of amphetamines. The physical and psychological dependencies, together, lock in amphetamine addiction and trap the user in a relentless cycle of amphetamine abuse.

Why are amphetamines addictive?

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 signs

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 addiction in the UK

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.

Side effects of amphetamine addiction

Amphetamine addiction can have both long-term and short-term effects on an individual’s health, as well as a significant impact on relationships, careers and other important aspects of life. These amphetamine addiction side effects include:

Dangerously elevated heart rate and blood pressure
Weight loss and poor nutrition
Severe dental problems
Heart problems, including heart disease
Memory loss and trouble making decisions

Anxiety, paranoia and panic attacks
Hallucinations and delusional thoughts

Severe dehydration and overheating
Harm to personal and professional relationships
Low self-esteem, depression and resulting risks
Job loss due to poor performance, absenteeism or other issues
Financial insecurity and resulting consequences
Legal issues due to illegal drug possession, supply or crimes committed to fund an amphetamine addiction

These side effects of amphetamine addiction can escalate quickly and require professional treatment and support to prevent and resolve.

The risk of amphetamine overdose

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 at UKAT London Clinic

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.

Get help for amphetamine addiction today

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you overdose on amphetamines?

Yes, amphetamine overdose is both possible and life-threatening. Amphetamine overdose symptoms include chest pain, a high fever, heavy sweating, seizures and loss of consciousness. If you spot any of these symptoms, immediate medical attention is required as they can escalate quickly without professional intervention.

Are there any other names for amphetamines?

Yes, amphetamines are known by many street names, including base, billy, paste, speed, phets, sulph and whizz. Prescription amphetamines are sold under various brand names, including Ritalin, Focalin and Adderall. All can be highly addictive and cause various health, personal and professional issues.

Are methamphetamines the same as amphetamines?

No, methamphetamines and amphetamines are not the same, although they are chemically similar. Generally speaking, methamphetamines are a more potent and addictive form of stimulant, often leading to more severe physical and psychological effects. However, both amphetamines and methamphetamine can both be addictive and cause similar issues.

What does amphetamine do for ADHD?

Amphetamines for ADHD work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which help improve focus, attention and impulse control. This can lead to better concentration, reduced hyperactivity and improved overall functioning for individuals with ADHD.