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American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory

Amphetamine Detox and Withdrawal

Amphetamine is an addictive stimulant drug. This drug has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Amphetamine detox centers are available to help those experiencing a problem with this drug. Brand names of medications that contain amphetamine include Adderall, Dexedrine, Dextrostat, Desoxyn, ProCentra and Vyvanse. These drugs are often prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy. Amphetamines are also used recreationally and as a performance-enhancing substance, and the most common street name for amphetamines is “speed.”

amphetamine-addictionA recently released comprehensive report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime estimated that between 13.7 million and 52.9 million people used amphetamine-group substances at least once in the preceding year, with a corresponding annual prevalence range of 0.3 percent to 1.2 percent of the population ages 15 to 64. If you are, or someone you love is, a possible candidate for an amphetamine detox program, please call to discuss treatment options.

Symptoms of Amphetamine Withdrawal

Amphetamines produce a highly pleasurable feeling in the body, increased wakefulness and focus, followed by feelings of depression and sadness when the drug wears off. Users will seek more of the drug to get back to the pleasurable state. This cycle quickly makes users dependent on the drug. Users also develop a tolerance to the drug, meaning that it takes more of the drug to get the same high. Chronic users may display destructive and violent behavior, even if they do not intend to do so. The primary step in amphetamine addiction treatment is detoxification. This is the process by which the body rids itself of the drug.

Because addicts are physically dependent on the drug, the body experiences withdrawal symptoms. Amphetamine withdrawal symptoms are primarily psychological in natures. Users going through amphetamine detox can expect any or all of the following symptoms.

  • Intense cravings
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Sleeplessness
  • Excessive sleeping
  • Suicidal ideation
  • Depression
  • Increased appetite

These symptoms, although unpleasant, are not life-threatening and can be managed under the supervision of a doctor in an amphetamine detox center. Withdrawal symptoms generally begin within 24 to 48 hours from the last use of the drug. Symptoms may last for days or weeks, depending on the length and amount of use. Because of the sometimes intense nature of withdrawal symptoms, many addicts choose to enter an amphetamine withdrawal treatment facility where they can have support and medical supervision during the withdrawal process.


Treatments for an Addiction

Currently, the most effective treatments for an amphetamine addiction are comprehensive cognitive behavioral interventions. A combination of individual counseling, 12-step support, family education, behavioral therapy, and encouragement of non-drug related activities is most often employed at amphetamine-withdrawal treatment facilities. Users have become used to coping with their problems through use of the drug. A comprehensive plan of treatment will give addicts healthy coping mechanisms to replace the previously learned ones. Amphetamine detox centers can assist the addict in ways to return to a healthy lifestyle. If you or a loved one would like to explore treatment options, please call today.

Residential detox centers are effective in helping addicts return to healthy living. With a combination of rest, daily exercise, vitamins, therapy and healthy nutrition, addicts are taught to replace bad habits with good ones. Users can share and learn from others with similar experiences. It is essential that users have a comprehensive plan to address the mental and physical effects of amphetamine addiction. To explore amphetamine detox programs, call today.

Pharmaceutical Treatments

Researchers are beginning to explore pharmaceutical treatment options for addiction. Replacement therapy with controlled doses of other stimulants, much like the use of methadone with heroin users, has shown promising results. Antidepressants, such as bupropion and aripiprazole, have been used to treat post-withdrawal cravings. Modafinil, an analeptic drug, is a Schedule IV drug that has also shown some success. Mirtazapine, another antidepressant, has also been reported as useful.

Importance of Long-Term Support

“Amphetamine detox is only the first step in addiction treatment.”Amphetamine detox is only the first step in addiction treatment. Without regular, long-term treatment in conjunction with amphetamine detox, many users will return to abusing the drug. Treatment may be provided on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Each person is different, and having a treatment plan tailored to each person’s specific situation increases the chances of a good outcome. Support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous can be helpful to some people going through an addiction. Supportive family and friends increase the chances of a successful recovery. Addiction is a chronic disease that needs long-term treatment.

According to the TEDS report, amphetamine treatment admission rates increased between 1993 and 1999 by 250 percent or more in 14 states and by 100 to 249 percent in another 10 states. There are many treatment options available that can be tailored to your specific situation. Amphetamine addiction treatment is not something to try to do alone. Treatment drastically increases users’ chances of successfully quitting the drug. For help with exploring options for treatment, please call .

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