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What Is the Difference Between Amphetamines and Methamphetamines?

a person holds a pill possibly wondering about the difference betweeen Amphetamines vs Methamphetamines

With the ever-expanding list of effective prescriptions doctors can use, it can be challenging to determine which drugs do what. Additionally, many of the well-known drugs often sound the same. Amphetamines and methamphetamine are closely grouped but hold several differences. However, both drugs are addictive and dangerous. Meth addiction treatment helps people who find themselves in the grips of severe drug addiction and may not have anywhere else to turn.

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, there is no better time to find help than now. The team at The Arbor knows how important it is to find evidence-based, effective therapies no matter where you are on the road to recovery. Your success in sobriety is our number one priority.

What Is an Amphetamine?

Amphetamines are a type of drug that stimulates the body. They work by increasing the activity of certain chemicals in the brain.

Doctors often use these drugs to treat conditions such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. They are also sometimes used to help people lose weight or stay awake for long periods.

Some of the most popular prescription amphetamines include Adderall and Ritalin. While many people find relief for their symptoms from these drugs, they may still become addicted to them.

What Is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine is a type of amphetamine. It is a powerful stimulant that can have dangerous effects on the body.

People most often use it as a recreational drug. It can be smoked, injected, or snorted. People who use it experience an intense feeling of euphoria. However, meth also has many serious risks, including addiction, psychosis, and death.

The Difference Between Amphetamines and Methamphetamine

Amphetamines and methamphetamine are both stimulants. They work by increasing the activity of certain chemicals in the brain. However, there are some key differences between these two drugs.

  • Potency – Methamphetamine is more potent than amphetamine. This potency means that it can have stronger effects on the body.
  • Addiction risk – Meth is also more likely to lead to addiction and other serious health problems. Therefore, it is generally considered more dangerous than amphetamine.
  • Approved use – While a limited number of approved medications include small doses of meth, doctors do not use it widely. Nearly all meth use in the country is illegal and involves drugs made on the street.

Amphetamines are also sometimes used recreationally. However, they are not as popular as methamphetamine for this purpose. This limited usage is because amphetamines tend to have weaker effects than methamphetamine.

If you or someone you know is using either of these drugs, getting help as soon as possible is essential. Both drugs can be extremely harmful, and the risks of using them outweigh the rewards.

Signs of Addiction: Amphetamines vs. Methamphetamine

Using either amphetamines or methamphetamine can lead to addiction. However, the signs of addiction often look similar for either type of drug.

Common signs of addiction include:

  • Taking the drug more often or in higher doses than intended
  • Struggling to control or reduce use
  • Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the drug
  • Giving up important activities in favor of drug use
  • Continuing to use despite problems caused by the drug

If you or someone you love is showing signs of addiction, getting help as soon as possible is important. Addiction is a serious condition that can lead to many health problems. It can also be difficult to overcome without treatment.

Addiction Treatment in Texas

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, the team at Arbor Behavioral Healthcare can help. We offer a variety of treatment options, including inpatient and outpatient programs. Our goal is to help you overcome addiction and regain control of your life.

No matter what your situation may be, we are here to help. Contact us today by calling 844.413.2690 to get started.