Drugs A-Z

Amphetamines

AKA

Amfetamine, Speed, Whizz, Sulph, Fast, Lou, Billy, Phet, Paste, Base, Dexamfetamine, Dexies, Dexedrine, Methamphetamine, Crystal Meth, Ice, Glass, Tina, Christine Methylphenidate or Ritalin is an amphetamine type drug with virtually identical effects.

Description

Amphetamines are synthetic stimulant drugs that act on the brain and nervous system and are much stronger and longer acting than other stimulant drugs. They are generally produced as a white, pinky or yellowish powder or putty (base) which is often cut with a number of different substances. They can be snorted, swallowed (in a cigarette paper) or injected and can also be added to drinks. Methamphetamine also comes in crystal form which can be smoked.

In Scotland the vast majority of Speed available on the streets is amphetamine sulphate. Average street speed may contain only 5% amphetamine sulphate yet base speed may be 10 times as strong or more. Pharmaceutical supplies are now limited to white, round 5mg dexamphetamine (Dexedrine) tablets and various strength methylphenidate (ritalin) tablets and capsules both prescribed for narcolepsy or ADHD.

Effects

Amphetamines generally cause euphoria, a decreased need for sleep and an increased excitability, sexuality, energy and alertness. They usually make the user feel more confident, alert and 'buzzing' often giving them a feeling they can do anything they want. Amphetamines also increase the heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and rate of breathing. Chronic, high dose use can lead to what is called 'Amphetamine Psychosis', resulting in paranoia, auditory and visual hallucinations, self-absorption, irritability, aggressive and erratic behaviour, and picking at the skin. This can be magnified by lack of sleep which often accompanies heavy use of the drug.

If snorted, effects usually start within 20 minutes whereas swallowing it can take up to an hour depending on how full the stomach is. Smoking Methamphetamine produces immediate effects as does intravenous injection. Many users can become physically run down which leaves them prone to a wide range of infections. Repetitive use may lead to paranoia, depression, anxiety and psychosis, tooth decay, stomach and body cramps and severe headaches. Users often experience a loss of appetite which could lead to unhealthy weight loss. When the drug wears off there can be an unpleasant comedown with users feeling tired, lethargic and depressed.

Harm Reduction

• Amphetamines are a stimulant and therefore users may experience difficulties sleeping and eating. Try to eat and sleep well before and after use.
• If snorting it is advisable to use a nasal douche or clean your nose after each session to minimise damage.
• It is best not to mix amphetamines with other drugs.
• If injecting make sure you rotate your sites and always use clean equipment.
• Don't share injecting equipment or tooters as this can increase the risk of getting infections like HIV and Hepatitis C.
• Sleep deprivation is half the comedown from Amphetamines.
  
• Try to rest even if you don't feel tired.
  
• Speed leeches calcium from the body. Eat dairy products to replace it.

Law

Most Amphetamines are class B drugs. Max penalty for possession is 5 years imprisonment and unlimited fine. Max penalty for supply and trafficking is 14 years and unlimited fine.

Methamphetamine is a class A drug, as are other amphetamines prepared for injection which carries stiffer penalties: max 7 years for possession and unlimited fine and life imprisonment for supplying others.

Detection

Can be found in urine from 2-6 days.