Amphetamines have been around for over 200 years, and were originally created as an appetite suppressant. They still have a number of legitimate clinical uses, for example it is sometimes used to treat narcolepsy. A derivative of amphetamine, called Dexedrine, is even used in the American air force to help their pilots maintain an alert state during missions where they will be airborne for a significant length of time. But amphetamines are also used in substance abuse.
There are several illegal drugs that are based on amphetamine, but 'speed' (also occasionally refereed to as 'uppers') is one of the better known and widespread on the streets. Amphetamine affects three chemicals in the brain which play a factor in pleasurable feelings; noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine. The increase in these neurotransmitters creates a sudden surge in feelings of euphoria, but also enhances focus and gives a burst of energy. It is a toxic and heady combination.
Substance abuse will cause long term damage to the brain in the long run. The brain will make structural changes in how it responds to dopamine and serotonin in an attempt to reduce the amount down to a natural level. If taking speed becomes a regular occurrence, the measures the brain has taken to counteract the flood of neurotransmitter will become permanent alterations.
What does this mean in layman's terms? Essentially, long term amphetamine abuse will lower your natural levels of "happy chemicals" in the brain. This can trigger depression. In the case of a drug addiction, the addict may continually increase how much speed they are taking to try and get the same enjoyment they did when they first started taking the drug. It becomes a vicious cycle.
If you are suffering from amphetamine addiction it is important to seek professional help. Counselling and support is available.
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