Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Methamphetamine Addiction - Amphetamine Addiction
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Amphetamines are powerful stimulants that are highly addictive. Habitual, repeated use of amphetamines results in amphetamine addiction.
What is going on in the body?
Amphetamines excite the central nervous system. They cause an overall sense of well-being for 6 to 8 hours. This period is followed by agitation that can cause violent behavior. Repeated use increases an individual's tolerance to the drug. As tolerance builds, more of the drug is needed to achieve a desired effect by the user. Classic signs of addiction are present with amphetamine use. When the drug is stopped, withdrawal symptoms appear.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Risk factors for amphetamine addiction include the following:
Symptoms & Signs
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
Someone who is under the influence of amphetamines may show the following symptoms:
A dependent individual may have the following symptoms:
Someone who is addicted to amphetamines may show the symptoms of dependence, as well as these additional symptoms:
Diagnosis & Tests
How is the condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis of amphetamine addiction begins with a medical history and physical exam. A urinalysis or blood tests will show if a person has used drugs.
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Education for those at risk is key. This should start during childhood. This way, healthy attitudes and knowledge of the risks can be learned at an early age. Parents who do not tolerate drug use can be a deterrent.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Amphetamine abuse causes long-term changes in the brain that interfere with memory and coordination. People who abuse amphetamines increase their risk of stroke. Other long-term effects of amphetamine abuse include:
What are the risks to others?
Amphetamine use reduces judgment and impulse control. An abuser puts others at risk for accidents and emotional injury. Amphetamine use during pregnancy can cause complications before, during, and after delivery. A child born to a woman who is abusing amphetamines can have developmental problems.
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment begins by helping the person admit there is a problem. Overcoming an individual's denial of his or her amphetamine addiction is the first step. Treatment options include the following:
There is no medication to treat amphetamine addiction. Abstinence from amphetamines is the key to a cure.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
There are no side effects to the treatment.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Those who complete treatment often continue with counseling or self-help groups.
How is the condition monitored?
The condition is monitored by the addicted person, significant others, and healthcare providers. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Attribution
Author:Ann Reyes, Ph.D.
Date Written:
Editor:Crist, Gayle P., MS, BA
Edit Date:04/30/01
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:08/20/01