Methamphetamine is an extremely dangerous drug, and in a sense, it can be more dangerous than other drugs in its class. If you have been abusing methamphetamine, or another type of stimulant drug, and need help in order to stop, call 800-816-1059(Who Answers?) now.
Methamphetamine vs. Other Amphetamines
Meth can sometimes be more dangerous than other amphetamine drugs. For example, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Methamphetamine can be prescribed by a doctor to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other conditions, although it is rarely used medically.”
The reason for the drug’s much rarer medical use than other substances like amphetamine and dextroamphetamine is because it is much more intense than these substances, it causes more severe side effects, and it is much more likely to create serious consequences if abused.
In addition, methamphetamine is also produced illegally and sold on the black market in its crystal form, a drug that is extremely dangerous, addictive, and likely to lead to deadly side effects. Therefore, meth in particular is only prescribed when absolutely necessary.
But Don’t They All Cause the Same Effects?
Methamphetamine is stronger than other amphetamines, making it easier for someone to become addicted.
It is true that all the effects that can possibly be caused by meth abuse can be caused by other prescription stimulants in the same drug class, but there are a number of issues that make the former substance considerably more dangerous.
- The administration of meth, when abused, will often cause the drug to reach the brain very quickly. Usually, it is smoked or injected, which is a common behavior for those who abuse the substance in its prescribed and its illicit form (NLM). While it is not administered this way when taken under a doctor’s care, those who abuse it will often turn to this method in order to gain this result, causing them to feel the rush of the drug’s effects much more quickly and more dangerously.
- Meth holds more risks when taken as a medication. Yes, a person could become addicted to any type of amphetamine drug, but meth is stronger than the other drugs in its class. Therefore, there is a particular risk involved in taking it as a medication.
- Other amphetamines do not have an illicit form in addition to the prescription drug that is often abused. This makes meth much more dangerous in many ways.
All amphetamine drugs have an element of risk to them, which any patient should be told and must understand before they begin a treatment regimen. And abusing any of these drugs is considerably dangerous and, depending on the severity of the abuse, will likely cause the same general symptoms and side effects.
However, it is very important that someone taking methamphetamine understands the intensity of the drug and the seriousness of how careful they must be while taking it.
Seek Treatment for Stimulant Abuse Now
If you have been abusing any type of illicit or prescription stimulant and have lost control over your use of the drug, call 800-816-1059(Who Answers?) now to find a rehab program where you can receive the help you need to recover. We will make sure to match you to a program that can cater to your needs and help you safely end your abuse of these dangerous drugs.