Molecularly speaking, there aren’t many differences between the chemical structures of amphetamines and methamphetamines. Both drugs work by stimulating the nervous system of the body and increasing dopamine production in the brain. But although the two compounds are very similar, the effects from the drugs have greatly different effects on the bodies of the users. Medical professionals noticed this when creating prescriptions that use amphetamines and methamphetamines.
Today and most of the prescription drugs that require such a chemical use amphetamines only (although there are some rare exceptions). The ‘Meth’ in methamphetamines proves to be too toxic to the body to have any reliable medical benefits. The following article is a resource for you concerning the differences between amphetamines, methamphetamines, addiction, and recovery from these drugs.
How are Amphetamines Used Medically?
Amphetamines have been used for a variety of purposes in prescriptions dating back for more than a century now. The drug has many medical uses namely in the treatment of attention deficit disorder or as a part of a weight loss program. Ritalin, Adderall, Vyvanse are just some of the brand names that utilize amphetamines as an active ingredient in their drugs. For thousands, it is an effective tool for combating their attention deficit or helping out with weight loss. But the problem with the thousands of amphetamine prescriptions in this country out there is that many of the pills are ending up in the hands of people without approval and therefore are abused. Addiction to amphetamines can be as serious as any addiction and is especially dangerous because of its propensity to lead to stronger drugs such as methamphetamines.
So What’s So Bad about Methamphetamine?
Anyone who’s seen an episode of “Breaking Bad” knows that meth is about as bad a drug as there is. The toxic effects on the body are unlike any other drug and can age the body drastically and in just a matter of years of heavy use causing the addicts to lose their teeth, hair, and youth along with the rest of their lives. Also, The Addictive qualities of the drug make it a prime catalyst for criminal behaviors once addicted. Although the drug is very similar to that of lab-made medical amphetamines. The extra molecule leads to nearly twice as much production of dopamine in the brain when used in comparison And therefore is nearly twice as addictive as medical amphetamine prescriptions. Studies have also shown that neurological damage occurs even after abuse of the substance has stopped. According to the National Institute of Health:
Heavy daily MA (meth) use and high dosages over a long duration result in neurobiological deficits that do not resolve until many months after cessation of use. (NIH)
What if Someone I Love is Addicted to Meth or Amphetamines?
Methamphetamines are the second most commonly abused drug worldwide. So if you or someone you know is suffering from a dependency on meth, amphetamines, or any other drug you are not alone. The best thing one can do when addicted to meth or any other drug is to seek help right away as addiction only worsens with severity as time continues. It is especially important to seek help when addicted to methamphetamines because the toxicity of the drug can lead to so many harmful and irreversible effects upon the body and mind.
Meth use affects all classes, creeds, races, and backgrounds. But addiction to the drug results in the same dark place for anyone that ends up down that path. Fortunately, there is help all around you and a community support system of people who have gone through the same thing. If you or a loved one have an addiction to Meth or Amphetamine Allure Detox has addiction specialists that will help you on the path to sobriety.