WHAT ARE AMPHETAMINES?

Amphetamines are stimulants that speed up the body’s system. Some are legally prescribed and used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What is their origin?

Amphetamines were first marketed in the 1930s as benzedrine in an over-the-counter inhaler to treat nasal congestion. By 1937, amphetamines were available by prescription in tablet form and were used in the treatment of the sleeping disorders narcolepsy and ADHD.

Over the years, the use and abuse of clandestinely produced amphetamines have spread. Today,clandestine laboratory production of amphetamines has mushroomed, and the abuse of the drug has increased dramatically.

What are common street names?

Common street names include:

• Bennies
• Black Beauties
• Crank
• Ice
• Speed
• Uppers

WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE?

Amphetamines can look like pills or powder. Common prescription amphetamines include amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine®), lisdexamphetamine (VyvanseTM), and methamphetamine (Desoxyn®).

HOW ARE THEY ABUSED?

Amphetamines are generally taken orally or injected. However, the addition of “ice,” the slang name of crystallised methamphetamine hydrochloride, has promoted smoking as another mode of administration. Just as “crack” is smokable cocaine, “ice” is smokable methamphetamine.

What is their effect on the mind?

The effects of amphetamines are similar to those of cocaine, but their onset is slower and their duration is longer. In contrast to cocaine, which is quickly removed from the brain and is almost completely metabolised, methamphetamine remains in the central nervous system longer, and a larger percentage of the drug remains unchanged in the body, producing prolonged stimulant effects.

Chronic abuse produces a psychosis that resembles schizophrenia and is characterised by paranoia, picking at the skin, preoccupation with one’s own thoughts, and auditory and visual hallucinations. Violent and erratic behaviour is frequently seen among chronic users of amphetamines.

WHAT IS THEIR EFFECT ON THE BODY?

The physical effects of amphetamine use include:

• Increased blood pressure and pulse rates
• Insomnia
• Loss of appetite
• Physical exhaustion

WHAT ARE THEIR OVERDOSE EFFECTS?

Overdose effects include:

• Agitation
• Increased body temperature
• Hallucinations,
• Convulsions
• Possible death

WHAT IS THEIR LEGAL STATUS IN GUYANA?

Many amphetamines are Schedule II stimulants, which means that they have a high potential for abuse and are currently acceptable for medical use. Pharmaceutical products are available only through a prescription that cannot be refilled.