What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Amphetamine Addiction

What is Amphetamine Dependence? (Definition/Background Information)

• Amphetamines are highly-addictive stimulant drugs. These synthetic drugs are typically prescribed to those who suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (an extreme type of sleep disorder)
• Side effects of the drug are often observed with amphetamine overdose and may include tremor, restlessness, anxiety, panic, vomiting, rapid breathing or pulse rate, and epileptic seizures
• Amphetamines may be illegally obtained and abused for the euphoric effects that they produce; the most commonly abused drug is methamphetamine (or ‘meth’)
• Amphetamine Dependence generally indicates that addiction has occurred and the user does not feel “normal” without the drug. The dependence is also characterized by withdrawal symptoms, once the drug usage is stopped

Who gets Amphetamine Dependence? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Amphetamines are used for their euphoric effects illegally around the world
• Any individual who uses amphetamine has the potential to become dependent on the drug. The condition is observed to be prevalent among teenagers and young adults
• The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the incidence of amphetamine use is higher in East Asian countries such as Japan, Korea, and the Philippines, followed by countries in the Oceanic region (Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, etc.)
• Those who live in the Southwest and Midwest parts of the United States are shown to abuse amphetamines more so than other regions of the country

What are the Risk Factors for Amphetamine Dependence? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors associated with Amphetamine Dependence include:

• High stress levels
• Peer pressure
• Low self-esteem or self-image
• History of drug abuse by the parents
• Depression
• Schizophrenia

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Amphetamine Dependence? (Etiology)

• Amphetamine Dependence is due to chronic use of the drug amphetamine
• It is still not fully understood why some users experience dependence, while some others do not
• Dependence can occur when the prescribed amphetamine drugs are not taken according to the healthcare provider’s specific instructions

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Amphetamine Dependence?

The signs and symptoms of Amphetamine Dependence may include:

• Increased mood or euphoria
• Increased respiration rate and blood pressure
• Dilated pupils
• Insomnia
• Anxiety, craving, depression
• Poor hygiene, neglecting responsibilities
• Dramatic weight loss
• Use of drugs when alone, feelings of guilt after drug use
• Violent mood swings, intense paranoia, hallucinations, confusion
• Desire to stop usage but is unable to
• Compulsive behavior to obtain and/or use the drug

Amphetamine Dependence is also characterized by the presence of withdrawal symptoms once usage of the drug is discontinued or stopped. Some of the common withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Irritability
• Aches and pains
• Depressed mood
• Suicidal ideation

How is Amphetamine Dependence Diagnosed?

In order to be diagnosed with Amphetamine Dependence, the following criteria must be met:

• Tolerance
• Withdrawal symptoms
• There is a desire to stop usage of the drug, but the individual is unsuccessful
• Large amount of time  spent in attempting to obtain and/or use the drug
• Larger amount and duration of the drug use than initially intended
• Continuation of use although negative consequences are known
• Neglecting responsibilities such as work, school, or personal relationships

For a diagnosis of dependence, one or more of the above conditions must occur within the same year.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Amphetamine Dependence?

Complications associated with Amphetamine Dependence include:

• Aggression or violent behavior
• Damaged personal relationships
• Depression
• Higher probability of accidents while driving or operating machinery
• Sexual impotence
• Brain damage, seizures
• Coma
• Severe cases of Amphetamine Dependence can result in death.

How is Amphetamine Dependence Treated?

Treatment plans for Amphetamine Dependence may include:

• Recourse to groups such as Narcotics Anonymous
• Medication to manage withdrawal symptoms
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy

How can Amphetamine Dependence be Prevented?

• Amphetamine Dependence can be 100% prevented by abstaining from the use of amphetamine
• If abuse has started to occur, an early awareness of the condition and early treatment will dramatically decrease the likelihood of dependence
• Since amphetamine drug can cause both physical and psychological dependence , it is very important that the dosage instructions of the healthcare provider be strictly adhered to
• Prescribed amphetamine drugs (for health conditions) must not be chewed or crushed in one’s mouth; it is important that tablets and capsules be swallowed with a glass of water (as per instruction)

What is the Prognosis of Amphetamine Dependence? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Amphetamine Dependence can be overcome with persistent effort of the individual, medical support,  and support of family and friends
• Relapse is highly likely after treatment; although with dedication, suitable lifestyle, and behavioral changes, the users can live a better quality of life

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Amphetamine Dependence:

• The most common co-occurring substance abuse with amphetamine is marijuana
• The WHO reports that there is a growing global abuse of a group of drugs commonly termed as amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), which chiefly includes amphetamine and methamphetamine and other substances such as methcathinone, fenetylline, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, methylphenidate and MDMA.