Amphetamines
By: Brian Michaels and Nick LoConte
What are Amphetamines?
Amphetamines are a type of Stimulant that can boost alertness, attention, and energy. It can also raise your blood pressure and make your heart beat faster.
How are they abused?
Amphetamines are abused by tablets being crushed and snort them or inject them.
People abuse Stimulants by:
- Taking someone else's prescription medication
- Taking a prescription medication in a way other than prescribed
- Taking the Stimulant to get high
How do they affect the brain?
They affect the brain because Amphetamines have chemical structures that are similar to certain key brain neurotransmitters which boost the effects the chemicals in the brain and body.
What are the other effects of Amphetamines?
- Increased blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Dangerously high body temperatures
- Decreased sleep etc.
Can you get addicted?
Yes, you can get addicted to the drug. When a person abuses stimulants on a daily basis, it is very hard stop.
Can you die from use?
It is possible to die from abusing stimulants often. Taking high doses of a stimulant can't make your blood pressure dangerously high.
How many teens abuse this drug?
For Amphetamines - 8th graders: 6.8% 10th graders: 9.7% 12 graders: 10.8%
What should you do if someone needs help?
You should call National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. If your friend needs other help with Substance Abused Treatment Facility Locator call at 1-800-662-HELP.
What classification does your drug belong in?
Amphetamines belong in the NIDA group.