Amphetamines (speed): tolerance and dependence
Tolerance and dependence
People who are physically dependent on amphetamines usually develop tolerance to the drug, making it necessary to take more and more to get the same effect. The quantity taken can reach a stage at which no further increase in the amount taken will produce the desired effect.
Dependence on amphetamines can be psychological or physical, or both. People who are psychologically dependent on amphetamines find that using them becomes far more important than other activities in their life. They crave the drug and will find it very difficult to stop using it. People who are physically dependent on amphetamines find that their body has become used to functioning with the amphetamines present.
Withdrawal
If a person who is dependent on amphetamines suddenly stops taking it, they will experience withdrawal symptoms, because their body has to readjust to functioning without the drug.
Amphetamine withdrawal symptoms may include hunger, extreme fatigue, anxiety, irritability and depression. People may also have a long but restless sleep, often interrupted by nightmares. Some experience severe distress or feelings of panic.
Treatment options
There are a number of drug treatment options available in Australia. While abstinence may be a suitable treatment aim for some people, many programmes recognise that for others this may not be possible or realistic. Most programmes adopt strategies that have an overall aim of reducing the harms and risks related to the person's drug use.
Some treatment options include counselling, group therapy, withdrawal (detoxification) and medication (pharmacotherapy). Residential and ‘out-patient’ programmes are available.
Treatment is more effective if tailored to suit a person's circumstances, and usually involves a combination of methods.
For referral to a treatment service, contact the alcohol and drug information service in your state or territory.
For more information, please click on the Australian Drug Foundation's DrugInfo Clearinghouse web site link below.
Last Reviewed: 20 September 2006
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