Methamphetamine vs Amphetamine: What You Need to Know
By: Lakeview Health Staff
Published: November 14, 2019

The similar name between the two drugs has many people pondering methamphetamine vs amphetamine and the dangers of addiction. This problem is one that must be adequately treated to manage any hazards. Sadly, methamphetamine and amphetamines are both dangerous when addicted. As a result, you may need an inpatient rehab center in Jacksonville, FL, to help you manage addiction.

What are Amphetamines?

Amphetamines are a prescription stimulant designed for a variety of purposes but mostly to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD occurs when parts of the brain don’t work as they should. Stimulation with amphetamines helps keep them operating more fluently. Also, some people with narcolepsy, a sleep disorder, use amphetamines to stay awake.

Like all stimulants, you can consume too many amphetamines. Some people seek it out because it is easier found than methamphetamine. Others prefer it because it is less potent than methamphetamine. The methamphetamine vs. amphetamine debate often ends here for many. Thankfully, proper use of amphetamines usually avoids addiction. Talk to a doctor if you worried about the potential for addiction or abuse.

Unfortunately, abused amphetamine causes a variety of side effects. These include difficulty sleeping, irritability, problems with staying asleep, dilated pupils, abnormally-excited mood, anxiety, loss of appetite, severe stomach pain, flushed skin, or emotional issues. Most symptoms like this are quite rare. So how does this substance hold up in the amphetamine vs methamphetamine debate? That depends on which substance you abuse before rehab.

The Nature of Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is an illegal amphetamine with no medical purpose, an essential point in the methamphetamine vs amphetamine debate. People do not take this substance for any therapeutic use. Instead, it is solely for the high. The effects it produces are similar to medical amphetamines. However, the side effects are more powerful and potentially more dangerous.

Use methods include smoking, swallowing, snorting, and injection. Because of its ease of use, most people smoke methamphetamine. However, some inject it for a more immediate and long-lasting high. People on methamphetamine experience high levels of uncontrollable energy. Some even lose control of their actions and behave in dangerous ways. Sadly, the risk of addiction is very high with this substance.

For example, many people crash on methamphetamine needing stronger or more frequent doses to achieve the same results leading to abuse and addiction. Short-term effects include a higher appetite, faster breathing, and heart irregularities. Long-term effects include heart damage, brain damage, lung problems, and rotting teeth. Many may overdose going into a coma and die. As a result, you must understand amphetamine vs methamphetamine and your treatment options.

Methamphetamine vs Amphetamine Treatment

Treatment for these substances focuses on your overall health. Holistic therapy takes care of your body, mind, and soul. This process has a specific pattern that helps manage your care. Just a few steps for rehab include:

  • Detox – Detoxification enables you to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms that may affect your recovery
  • Assessing physical health problems – Get treatment for common physical ailments
  • Working for mental health issues – Use dual-diagnoses and counseling to manage mental health concerns
  • Tweaking the program, as needed – Adjust your program focus to help improve your care needs
  • Aftercare to handle other matters – Participate in aftercare, such as AA or NA, to stay sober

All of these treatment options help you achieve a sober life. However, you need to consider medicine replacement for amphetamines. If you need them for a medical condition, you may require other medicines to take their place. This process ensures your health and safety. It also makes sure you stay off substances and live a sober life.

Let Us Help You Recover

At Lakeview Health, you get access to many different care options. We have a gender-specific treatment model that manages your needs. Each program is individualized making them more effective. Our trauma care is the best in the nation helping many people recover. With a holistic care model, we work to heal your whole body and mind. Call us at [Direct] now and verify your insurance online to get started.