Amphetamine abuse
About Amphetamine abuse
Amphetamine (Methamphetamine) is a powerful stimulant that can cause a euphoric feeling in some users and goes by the street names `speed`, `meth` and `chalk`. The drug is very addictive and abuse leads to memory loss, aggression, psychotic behavior, heart damage, malnutrition, and severe dental problems. Amphetamines can be taken by mouth, smoked, injected, or inhaled. The chronic user can suffer severe psychological and medical damage.Symptoms
Excitement, increased confidence, raised blood pressure, pupil dilation, sweating, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, irritability, psychotic symptoms, aggression, violence, seizures, fever, paranoia, hallucinations, severe anxiety, depression, suicide, exhaustion, malnutrition.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional lab tests may be done to rule out organ damage.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Depends on severity of symptoms but can include antipsychotics (haloperidol), benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam) and intravenous fluids. Psychological counseling for addiction is often warranted. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.Medical specialties
Psychiatry · Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry · Addiction Psychiatry · Addiction Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Amphetamine abuse.