Amphetamine toxicity

General Introduction

Much of the scientific literature as to the acute toxic effects of amphetamines has focused on amphetamine psychosis – a condition similar to schizophrenia. This condition tends to be associated with use of the drug at high dosages and/or for prolonged periods. The maximum therapeutic dose is 60mg dexamphetamine (equivalent to 120mg ‘pure’ illicit amphetamine which is an equal mix of two stereoisomers – d-amphet being psychoactive whereas l-amphet is not), but even therapeutic doses can give rise to psychotic symptoms.

Amphetamine use and purity

Amphetamine Consumption Patterns

Amphetamine is a Class B drug which nonetheless shows some features of physical dependence. The main effects are an increase in alertness and tolerance of physical activity Tolerance to the stimulant effects develops rapidly - the main reason why widespread prescribing of the drug for obesity was restricted. A therapeutic dose of 5mg (pure) amphetamine may have the same effect in a novice user as 300mg in a heavily dependent user.

Amphetamine & Sex

1.1 Amphetamine was widely prescribed until the mid 1960s as a stimulant and appetite-suppressant, until the dependence-potential of amphetamine (and other stimulants) led to a falling out of favour among the medical profession. Amphetamine, although a controlled drugs, is still prescribable for certain conditions (e.g. narcolepsy)[i], and appears in Schedule 2 of the Misuse of Drug Regulations 1985, meaning that it can be prescribed for medical treatment subject to proper monitoring and reporting criteria.

Independent Drug Monitoring Unit

Amphetamine toxicity

General Introduction

Amphetamine use and purity

Amphetamine Consumption Patterns

Amphetamine & Sex

Drugs Information

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