Amphetamine Pill Abuse in Georgia
Amphetamines are classified as central nervous system stimulants. People, especially young adults, often abuse these prescribed substances in order to succeed in school or at work. Some of the legal amphetamine pills are:
- Adderall
- Ritalin
- Vyvanse
- Strattera
- Dextrostat
- Concerta
These drugs increase the rate at which the body and brain communicate. They also stimulate the release of dopamine causing increased feelings of joy and euphoria. Individuals may also feel more focused, be able to think more clearly, have increased energy, and feel more social.
In 2018, amphetamines were involved in more overdose-related deaths than any other drug. There were 1,335 ER visits, 764 hospitalizations, and 425 deaths. This represents a 56% increase in amphetamine-related deaths since 2016.
Stories of Recovery
The following stories show that recovery from amphetamine pills is very possible.
Physical Signs of Use
It can be really difficult to tell when someone is abusing amphetamine pills, especially if they have a legal prescription for them. Some of the physical signs can include:
- Dilated pupils
- Lack of regular sleeping or eating schedule
- Fast and excessive talking
- Teeth grinding
- Increased confidence
- Increased body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure
- Dry mouth
Symptoms of Amphetamine Pill Abuse
Though amphetamine pills like Adderall and Ritalin can cause a person to become more focused, abuse of these drugs can cause other effects. Some of the more common symptoms of abuse include:
- Hostility or aggressiveness
- Altered sexual behavior
- Unrealistic ideas of abilities or power
- Malnutrition
- Paranoia, psychosis, or hallucinations
- Increased tolerance
- Withdrawal
- Strained relationships
- Depression
- Seizures, coma, and even death
The severity of these symptoms, and whether they even show up, is ultimately going to depend on how much is being taken and for how long. Tolerance is going to increase as more pills are used, and this may also increase the severity of these effects.
Individuals withdrawing from amphetamine pills may also experience some post-acute symptoms up to a year after their last use. These symptoms can look like:
- Short term memory problems
- Inability to focus
- Inability to experience pleasure
- Cravings
- Sleep problems
SYMPTOMS OF AMPHETAMINE PILL WITHDRAWAL INCLUDE:
Quitting amphetamine use can be extremely difficult, especially for someone who has experienced prolonged use. Some of the withdrawal side effects can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Severe fatigue
- Body aches and pains
- Cravings
- Suicidal Ideations
- Confused thoughts
- Irritability or agitation
- Emotional outbursts
Treatment
Because most amphetamine pills are prescribed, it can be difficult to stop taking them. This is especially true for people who don’t believe they can live without the medication. Medical help is the most effective way to get sober.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
People often begin taking these medications for ADHD. Working with a therapist to address this underlying cause can help someone stay away from amphetamine pills. For people who take these medications not prescribed to them, it can be beneficial to address the reasons why in therapy. CBT works to help clients address their negative thoughts and behaviors and rework them in a positive way.
Medication
Though there are no specific medications that help with amphetamine addiction treatment, there are some that can minimize the side effects a person may be struggling with.
- Antidepressants can help with anxiety and depression
- Sleep aids can help with someone struggling with insomnia
Amphetamine Support Resources
- Narcotics Anonymous: This website lists meeting times and locations for NA meetings in Georgia