Amphetamines are a class of synthetic stimulant drugs (also known as “uppers”) that speed up the central nervous system.
They allow messages to move faster between the body and brain, making users feel more alert and energized. Prescription amphetamine is used to treat narcolepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obesity, and depression. However, amphetamine also causes euphoric feelings and a sense of power, often leading to its misuse. Illegally obtained amphetamine is typically used to improve cognitive ability, enhance sociability, and boost libido. Using amphetamine without a prescription carries a high risk of abuse and addiction.
Amphetamine-type drugs are among the most frequently identified controlled substances in drugs seized by Canadian law enforcement agencies. Drugs in this class include prescription medication like Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexedrine. More powerful substances like methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy) are illegal and carry a higher addiction potential.
It’s vital to seek help immediately if you or a loved one is struggling with the effects of amphetamine abuse and addiction. The Canadian Centre for Addictions offers amphetamine addiction treatment and rehab in Ontario.
Getting Help for Amphetamine Addiction
If you or a loved one is dealing with amphetamine addiction, the Canadian Centre for Addiction can help.
At CCFA, we offer the most sophisticated amphetamine addiction treatment in an environment that inspires lasting change. We also help people understand their addictions and the healthier coping strategies available to them by engaging them in one-on-one counselling with certified counsellors, psychiatrists, and mental health care professionals.
Call 1-855-499-9446 to learn more about our amphetamine toxicity treatment programs.
How We Treat Amphetamine Addiction and What to Expect
At CCFA, we design our amphetamine addiction treatment with the individual in mind. We tailor our treatment strategies to meet the unique symptoms of the client. Our visitors can expect a full range of quality services that provide flexible therapy and counselling for addiction. We also know that addiction can negatively impact every aspect of your life, so our specialists will assess you to provide an individualized, client-centred approach to treatment.
Our addiction treatment facilities offer inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, individual and group counselling, intervention counselling, and lifetime aftercare, all designed to give you the best chance at recovery.
When to Seek Help for Amphetamine Addiction
Individuals with a prescription for amphetamine may abuse and become addicted.
Resistance and tolerance lead to a demand for higher quantities of the drug to produce the same effect. Users may turn to illicit sources if they can no longer get the drug via a prescription. The presence of one or more of these signs could indicate that a person needs help for amphetamine abuse or addiction:
- Using the drug in other ways than prescribed, such as snorting or injecting to get a faster, stronger high
- Borrowing or stealing other people’s prescription
- Getting amphetamine from non-medical sources
- Intense cravings for amphetamine
- Spending significant time obtaining, using, and recovering from the drug’s effects
- Continued amphetamine use despite adverse effects on one’s health, finances, and relationships
- Neglecting one’s responsibilities due to amphetamine use
- Getting into financial or legal troubles due to amphetamine use
- Increased use of other substances like alcohol and cannabis for relaxation
- The buildup of tolerance – needing more quantities of the drug to get the same effect
- Withdrawal symptoms due to reduction or cessation of amphetamine use
Why You Should Choose the Canadian Centre for Addictions
Addiction is a complex disease that requires the right professional help. The stigma associated with addiction also makes it challenging to speak up or determine the best place to seek help. Addiction also disrupts your life and disconnects you from the things that matter. At CCFA, we offer a patient-centric approach that keeps you connected to your life and responsibilities outside so your transition to regular life is as smooth as possible.
We take our work seriously because we understand that our clients are at a vulnerable point in their life. We are open, honest, and communicative about what we deliver and take the first step towards building the trust needed to form strong bonds with those who need our help.
We also understand that addiction affects not only the individual but others close to them. So, our therapists and staff extend their care to helping families cope with addiction while treating their loved ones. We not only help people overcome their addictions, but we also help them navigate the hurdles that addiction creates for those who care about them.
Treatment at CCFA doesn’t end but evolves when you leave. We offer a place where people can return to if things get hard. Our combination of quality inpatient care and the sense of community from our aftercare services provide a balance you can rely on year after year.
The Canadian Centre for Addictions Success Stories
At CCFA, we have recorded tremendous success in treating people with different addictions. Here are testimonials from some of our satisfied clients:
“The highly competent staff is able to provide emotional and physical support as well as effective addiction therapy. With an open mind, I found I was able to draw healing from each of the well-balanced and skillfully presented meetings and activities. During my stay at CCFA, I learned how to regain control of my life. I left with skills I require to keep moving forward in my recovery. The facility is spacious, comfortable and clean, and the community is exceptional. The fitness and activities, as well as the delicious meals, are outstanding. By far, this was the most productive 30 days of my life. A gift from me to me!”
Elliot Hester
“I came in with a broken soul, full of self-pity, not liking who I was, full of fear and low self-esteem. During my stay, I learned so many valuable lifelong lessons. The counsellors challenged me to feel again; to think and understand those feelings, to express my feelings and thoughts. They have taught me the strategies and tools that I must apply to my new life going forward. For the first time in my life, I feel calm, relaxed, strong with the new me, and most importantly, HAPPY. Thank You.”
Edmund Rudd
“My involvement with CCFA has been an absolute lifesaver for me. The entire program and one-on-one sessions have given me the look and strategies to leave with and have a clean and sober life going forward. A very warm, welcoming, home-like environment.”
Martha Esquivel
“The CCFA has showed me a new way of life. The counsellors here are amazing, love working with all of them. I had a great stay and can’t wait to continue my road to recovery with the tools I have learned. Thank you.”
Kiaan Ochoa
Types of Treatment for Amphetamine Addiction
CCFA offers multiple amphetamine abuse and addiction treatment options. Our amphetamine treatment programs are tailored to meet the client’s specific needs.
Detox
Detox is the process of getting every trace of an addictive substance out of the client’s system. Amphetamine withdrawal symptoms can be highly unpleasant and can trigger a relapse. It’s best to carry out amphetamine withdrawal treatment with medical monitoring. Our detox program allows you to rid your body of amphetamine and other substances in a safe, controlled environment under professional supervision.
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient rehab is an intensive treatment designed for severe cases of amphetamine addiction. CCFA provides a sober and secure environment for clients to recover from addiction. Our amphetamine treatment centres utilize patient-oriented protocols to set our clients on the path to recovery. We employ a holistic approach by combining medical treatment with other relevant treatment options.
Outpatient Treatment
In outpatient treatment, the individual lives at home but attends scheduled appointments and meetings. Outpatient treatment is ideal for clients with manageable symptoms and sufficient motivation to improve. It often requires a reliable support network of friends and family to encourage and help the patient stay on the path to full recovery.
Counselling
Addiction is often caused by negative thinking patterns that fuel harmful behaviour. Finding and modifying the root cause of these thought patterns is crucial to overcoming addiction. Our addiction counselling programs involve individual or group sessions that help participants identify and change these thought patterns and behaviours. It also helps to spot and resolve past trauma that may be promoting addictive behaviour. CCFA’s counselling and intervention programs help addicts develop positive attitudes and skills, which they’ll use as they begin their journey to sobriety.
Aftercare
Addiction recovery does not end with treatment. Recovering addicts require continuous aftercare services to prevent relapse when they face challenges. Our relapse prevention programs equip patients with the tools and coping mechanisms to remain sober when they inevitably encounter triggers. An aftercare treatment plan depends on an individual’s situation and may include outpatient treatment, counselling, and 12-step programs.
What to Expect in Amphetamine Addiction Treatment
When you come to CCFA for treatment for amphetamine addiction, you can expect treatment in an environment that inspires lasting change. The first thing we’ll do when you come in for treatment is to evaluate and understand your situation so that we can design a specialized recovery plan.
We will assess your medical history to determine whether you’re using other drugs with amphetamine. The presence of other drugs in your system can complicate the detox process.
We will screen you for co-occurring mental health disorders and perform tests to determine the amount of amphetamine and other substances in your system. We will start your treatment with detox to rid your body of every trace of drugs. If your situation is severe, you will be admitted to our facility so our staff can safely monitor and manage your withdrawal symptoms. Otherwise, you can go home and return for scheduled appointments.
We offer individual and group counselling sessions to help clients identify and change thought patterns that may fuel substance abuse and addiction.
Our holistic treatment programs incorporate meditation, mindfulness, yoga and similar activities to help our clients stay grounded. You may also be encouraged to join a support group where you connect and interact with others at different stages of recovery.
Your treatment does not end when you leave our centre. At CCFA, we provide aftercare and relapse prevention services as part of our treatment program. We teach our clients to identify their triggers and design strategies to avoid or get through them. We also offer bi-weekly in-person aftercare visits and teleconferencing options to ensure long-term recovery.
Amphetamine Addiction Treatment Stages
The stages in the treatment for amphetamine abuse are:
- Detox
- Inpatient/Outpatient treatment
- Counselling/therapy
- Aftercare
Understanding Amphetamine Addiction
Amphetamine addiction often starts when the drug is used for purposes other than prescribed. A typical example is among college students who use the drug to study for tests or exams. Amphetamine addiction is characterized by a compulsive need to use the drug despite obvious adverse consequences. This need is due to brain changes that make it difficult for the individual to feel pleasure without the drug.
Amphetamine acts on the central nervous system, speeding up brain activity and leaving the user feeling more alert and energized. It increases the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine which regulates pleasure, reward, and motivation. However, the feel-good effects of amphetamine wear off quickly, leaving the user with an unpleasant comedown afterward. This feeling makes them crave the euphoria again, prompting them to abuse the drug.
Individuals who cannot get a prescription may turn to illegal sources, putting them at risk of addiction and other complications. Continued amphetamine abuse will lead to tolerance, requiring increased doses to obtain the same effects. Amphetamine can also rewire the brain, making the user dependent on the drug for normal functioning. Continued drug use in this manner will become full-blown addiction with time. The individual will also experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if they try to stop using the drug.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Amphetamine
Amphetamine withdrawal symptoms occur when a dependent or addicted individual attempts to stop or reduce drug use. The severity of symptoms depends on the length and frequency of drug use, the presence of existing health disorders, the use of other substances, and biological factors like gender, age, and weight. Withdrawal symptoms kick in within 24 to 48 hours after the last use and can last weeks to months. Amphetamine withdrawal symptoms include:
- Delayed reaction times and movement
- Fatigue and sleeping for unusually long periods
- Vivid and often unpleasant dreams
- Confused and disordered thinking
- Uncontrolled body movements and twitches
- Increased appetite
- Emotional outbursts
- Depressive episodes
- Irritability and agitation
Amphetamine Addiction Symptoms
The symptoms of amphetamine addiction may be physical or behavioural:
Physical Symptoms
- Intense cravings for the drug
- Elevated body temperature and blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Increased heart rate
- Digestive disturbances
- Dry mouth and dental problems
- Headaches
- Malnutrition and weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Abdominal pain
- Increased respiratory rate
- Increased energy
- Decreased appetite
Behavioural Symptoms
- Mood swings
- Delusions
- Visual, auditory, or tactile hallucinations
- Aggressive or violent behaviour
- Depression
- Confusion
- Poor and healthy lifestyle choices like driving while intoxicated, having unprotected sex or sharing needles
What are the Causes of Amphetamine Addiction
Amphetamine addiction occurs when a person uses the drug indiscriminately for an extended period. There is no specific cause of addiction, but the following factors may predispose an individual to amphetamine abuse and addiction:
• Psychological Factors
Individuals with ADHD or narcolepsy who receive an amphetamine prescription for their symptoms may get to a point where they feel they cannot do without the drug. This feeling may lead to abuse and dependence as they develop tolerance.
• Environmental and Social Factors
Individuals in environments with easy access to amphetamines may have a higher addiction risk. Individuals with stressful lifestyles may also turn to amphetamines as a coping mechanism.
• Brain Changes
Prolonged amphetamine use can cause changes in brain structure and neurotransmitter balance, making users crave the drug till they become addicted.
• Genetic Factors
Our genes play a significant role in addiction development. A family history of amphetamine abuse and addiction may increase one’s likelihood of becoming addicted.
• Academic Pressure
Students who face pressure to perform well in school may use amphetamine as a study aid. This off-label use of the drug is common and may lead to addiction.
Long-term Effects of Amphetamine Addiction
Long-term amphetamine abuse causes changes in brain structure and can lead to the following:
- Obsessive behaviour
- Hallucinations, confusion, and paranoia
- Loss of coordination
- Respiratory problems
- Violent or aggressive behaviour
- Skin sore and dental problems
- Stroke and seizures
- Heart failure
- Overdose leading to coma and death
Frequently Asked Questions
Amphetamines may provide a short-term focus and memory boost, but there is no evidence that using amphetamine can improve long-term memory. Students who use amphetamine as a study aid do not necessarily become smarter or learn better. Studies show that these drugs do little to enhance cognitive performance in college students. They may also cause side effects like anxiety, fatigue, irritability, and reduced sleep quality, negatively impacting academic performance.
Amphetamines enhance the effects of multiple neurotransmitters and increase blood flow to the sexual organs. This action can heighten sexual desire and the ability to experience sexual pleasure. Amphetamines may also cause hypersexuality, an overwhelming sexual urge that makes the individual unable to focus on anything besides sex.
Yes. Observational studies show that continuous amphetamine use ages the cardiovascular system quicker than people who use tobacco or methadone.
Yes. Amphetamines cause dopamine depletion and loss of dopamine uptake sites in a dose-dependent manner. Dopamine deficiency is linked to mental health conditions like depression, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease.
Yes. Amphetamines can trigger the manic or depressive episodes of bipolar disorder. They can also trigger suicidal ideations during any of these phases.
Yes. Amphetamines are prescribed as a short-term treatment for weight loss. They act in the brain to reduce appetite and enhance mobility and stamina.
Amphetamines provide increased focus and energy, so they are often used as an off-label study aid. However, they are not approved for this purpose and using them this way may lead to drug abuse and addiction. Studies also show these drugs do not necessarily enhance academic performance.
– Adderall XR(10 to 12 hours)
– Adzenys ER (10 to 12 hours)
– Adzenys XR-ODT (10 to 12 hours)
– Dyanavel XR (13 hours)
– Dexedrine ER (5 to 10 hours)
– Xelstrym ( 4 to 9 hours)
– Vyvanse (10 to 13 hours)
The exact length of time for each amphetamine depends on the patient’s metabolism.
Yes. Amphetamines can cause blurred vision and changes in pupil size, making it difficult for users to see or read clearly.
Amphetamines may be used by athletes to reduce fatigue and increase alertness or competitiveness. The effects of these drugs on sporting performance are unclear, but substance use in professional sports is illegal and considered against the spirit of fair play.
