With so many drugs of use available today, it’s easy to get them confused. Are you looking for the difference between amphetamines vs. methamphetamine?
Amphetamines are a group of central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drugs with psychoactive properties that affect the mind. The group of amphetamines is comprised of any drugs classified as amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, and methamphetamine.
Methamphetamine is often used in an illicit form known as crystal meth. The names of these two drugs are very similar, but their use is quite different and results in differing consequences.
If you or a loved one is trying to decipher meth vs. amphetamines, Vertava Health can help provide useful information. Contact our meth rehab center by calling us at 844.470.0410 today.
Amphetamine: Definition, Use, and Use
Amphetamine is a stimulant which means it has a stimulating effect on your body. When you take amphetamine, it helps improve your mood and increases alertness. Historically, amphetamines were not prescribed for stimulant effects, but today they help people with a number of medical conditions.
People may take amphetamine for obesity, narcolepsy, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Common brands of amphetamine include:
- Adderall
- Desoxyn
- Dexedrine
- DextroStat
Amphetamine is prescribed in pill form and intended for oral use with a fairly slow release. People who use it may crush and snort the powder, combine it with water into a solution, inject it, or smoke it by inhaling vapors.
Use of amphetamine can cause several side effects, as use enhances the side effects of the drugs:
- Increased body temperature
- Hostility
- Paranoia
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Alertness, talkativeness
- Euphoria
- Dry mouth
- Lack of appetite
- Pupil dilation
- Heavy breathing
- Headache or nausea
- Heart palpitations
- Tremors
- Muscle spasms
- Change in sexual behavior
With prolonged use, the severity of these effects worsens and can result in psychosis, psychological issues, behavioral changes, convulsions, coma, or even death.
Methamphetamine: Definition, Use, and Use
Methamphetamine is a stimulant within the amphetamine class used to treat obesity and ADHD. While it can be a helpful medication for these conditions when taken as directed, methamphetamine has become a popular drug of use. This is especially true of the illicit form, crystal meth.
As with amphetamine, methamphetamine is available under prescription in pill form. When people use it, they crush and snort it or mix it with water to make a solution to inject. But methamphetamine (commonly called meth) may also be formed into a solid, crystal-like form and smoked.
Some of the most severe problems associated with the use of methamphetamine include:
- Increasing body temperature until you faint
- Severe itching, which can lead to scratching to the point of lesions and, later, infections
- A condition known as meth mouth, terrible dental and mouth problems including cracked teeth
- Changes to thought processes
- Changes in behavior and mood
Amphetamines vs. Methamphetamine
Regarding amphetamines vs. methamphetamine, the most significant difference is the level of control and regulation. Amphetamines, when prescribed by a doctor, can be helpful for certain conditions in controlled doses. Methamphetamine, on the other hand, has a high risk for abuse and addiction. In addition, methamphetamine can have more severe side effects and health consequences.
Solutions in Treatment
So what can be done to help those who’ve fallen victim to amphetamine or methamphetamine use? Treatment. Treatment is the best solution to help people overcome substance use and addiction, and it’s proven effective in the lives of thousands every year.
At our meth rehab centers, you’ll be taken away from the chaos of addiction and will heal in a welcoming, substance-free environment. In treatment, you’ll be surrounded by experts in the field, trained and licensed clinical and medical staff, and peers traveling the same healing journey.
Our facilities also provide some of the best evidence-based treatment modalities available. We recognize that each person requires different aspects of treatment. Our programs are as unique as our patients—each treatment plan will be tailored to your needs. Some of the methods we integrate into treatment plans include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Counseling: group, family, and individual
- Gender-specific treatment
- Alternative therapy: Adventure and Wilderness therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Mental health services and treatment
- Aftercare support
Find Your Treatment Solution Today at Vertava Health
Methamphetamine and amphetamine are not drugs you want to experience, but if you are struggling with using them, we can help. It’s not easy to reach out for help, but we’re here to make the process of getting the healing you need as smooth as possible.
Contact Vertava Health to learn more about substance use and treatment options by using our online form or calling us at 844.470.0410 today.
