Amphetamines

Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that include prescribed medicines and illicit substances such as methamphetamine. They can increase alertness, energy and concentration, but can also disrupt sleep, suppress appetite, strain the cardiovascular system and contribute to addiction and psychosis.

Amphetamines are a family of stimulant drugs rather than a single substance. Some amphetamine medicines are prescribed for conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy, while amphetamine and methamphetamine are also used non-medically.

These contexts are not interchangeable. Taking an amphetamine medicine as prescribed is different from taking larger amounts, using someone else’s medication or using an illicit stimulant of uncertain strength or composition. Prescribed medicines can still have risks, while medical treatment with a stimulant does not by itself mean someone is addicted.

Amphetamines increase activity in brain systems involved in alertness, attention, motivation and reward. Effects can include greater energy, concentration and confidence, but also anxiety, irritability, reduced appetite and prolonged wakefulness.

Methamphetamine is an important member of this drug family. Its strong and long-lasting stimulant effects can contribute to repeated dosing, severe sleep disruption, cardiovascular strain, overheating, paranoia and psychotic symptoms.

Serious stimulant toxicity can involve chest pain, very high body temperature, seizures, severe agitation or major changes in mental state. These risks are not limited to people with a long history of stimulant addiction.

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