Everything you need to know about amphetamines
Although not as commonly used as cannabis or cocaine, amphetamines remain among the most commonly seized controlled drugs in Ireland.In this article, we take a closer look at amphetamines, what they are, the different types available, and how long amphetamines stay in your system.
Table of contents
- What are amphetamines?
- What are the street names for amphetamines?
- What do amphetamines look like?
- How do people behave when they take amphetamines?
- What happens when you use amphetamines with other drugs?
- Which legislation covers amphetamine use?
- What are amphetamines used for?
- What are the effects of amphetamine misuse?
- How long do amphetamines stay in your system?
- How long does it take for amphetamines to show up in a drug test?
- How can I find out if a friend or family member is using amphetamines?
What are amphetamines?
Amphetamines are synthetic drugs that stimulate the brain and are often prescribed by doctors to treat conditions including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and certain types of sleep disorders, including narcolepsy. Also known by the street names ‘ice’ and ‘speed’, amphetamines are most commonly found in tablet, powder, crystal, and capsule form and can be white, pink, or yellow in colour. When prescribed by a doctor, the use of amphetamines is legal. However, amphetamines are also commonly misused by recreational drug users. These types of drugs are typically swallowed, injected, smoked, or snorted. It is also not uncommon for amphetamines to be consumed in a drinkable format. Amphetamines are classified as controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 and the Misuse of Drugs Act 1984. This means the possession, manufacture and supply of amphetamines is illegal in Ireland. Possession of amphetamines could result in a fine, a prison sentence or both. However, offences relating to the manufacture and supply of controlled substances typically carry much harsher sentences.What are the street names for amphetamines?
When sold and used illegally, amphetamines are commonly known by the following street names:
- Speed
- Uppers
- Ice
- Crystal
- Meth
What do amphetamines look like?
Amphetamines are often sold illegally in powder and tablet form, as crystals or capsules, and can have an off-white, pink, grey or yellow appearance, sometimes resembling putty. They are often packaged up in aluminium foil, plastic bags, or small balloons.How do people behave when they take amphetamines?
How someone feels and behaves after taking amphetamines can vary. For some people, it can make them feel more energised, awake, and excited, which can in turn make them chatty and talkative. However, others might feel agitated, anxious and/or panicked. Amphetamine use has also been linked to increased aggression.What happens when you use amphetamines with other drugs?
Below is an overview of the side effects of using amphetamines alongside other drugs.
AntidepressantsPeople who take certain antidepressants alongside amphetamines could be putting themselves at risk of irregular heartbeat and seizures, which could even be fatal.
AlcoholUsing amphetamines while drinking alcohol can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can also increase the risk of alcohol poisoning, as a person taking amphetamines may not be fully aware of how much they are drinking.
Opioids People who take amphetamines and opioids simultaneously are at increased risk of irregular heartbeat, seizures, overdose and even death.Which legislation covers amphetamine use?
Amphetamines are Schedule 2 controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. This means that the illegal import, export, production, possession, sale, or supply of amphetamines is prohibited. Anyone who commits one of these offences could be liable for a fine, prison sentence, or both. However, several factors will be considered for sentencing including the type, quantity, and total value of the drugs found.What are amphetamines used for?
Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that are highly addictive and speed up the rate at which messages are sent between the brain and the body. This makes individuals more alert and focused. Amphetamines also cause an increase in dopamine levels, the feel-good chemical in the brain. When a person consumes amphetamines, they are broken down by the liver and released into the bloodstream. This is when the drugs begin to increase brain activity levels. In medical settings, amphetamines may be prescribed to treat a range of health conditions, including:- Narcolepsy – a rare neurological condition that can affect the brain’s ability to control sleep-wake cycles. This can cause people to become drowsy throughout the day
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – a condition that can affect people’s behaviour, making it difficult to concentrate. People with ADHD may also experience restlessness, or may act impulsively
What are the effects of amphetamine misuse?
While the initial effects of amphetamines might only last a few hours, depending on how much has been taken and whether it is used regularly or not, amphetamines can cause several long-term side effects. Recreational users typically consume amphetamines because it makes them feel full of energy and excited. However, it is important to remember that drugs affect different people in different ways, so not everybody will have the same experience while using the same substances. Drugs can even affect the same person differently when taken at a different time. The short-term effects of amphetamine misuse include:- Anxiety and agitation
- Rising body temperature
- Increased heart rate
- Higher blood pressure
- Breathing issues
- Difficulty sleeping
- Confusion and memory loss
- Loss of appetite
- Hallucinations
- Stomach issues including sickness
- Panic attacks
- Muscle cramps and muscle breakdown
- Migraines and headaches
- Tooth decay
- Organ failure