Individuals who use amphetamines regularly, may experience amphetamine withdrawal when they abruptly try to quit using the drug, or they run out their supply. Some of the symptoms of withdrawal can be quite unpleasant to manage, and often an amphetamine user will end up getting more of the drug just to avoid withdrawal. If the user has developed a strong addiction to it, then the symptoms may become more severe, and pose a health risk -both physically and psychologically- to the user.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, if stimulants (such as amphetamines) are abused chronically, withdrawal symptoms—including fatigue, depression, and disturbed sleep patterns—can result when a person stops taking them.
What Symptoms of Amphetamine Withdrawal Can a User Experience?
Anyone that frequently takes stimulant drugs, such as amphetamines, or has become addicted to them has the potential of experiencing withdrawal when they suddenly stop taking the drug. If you have developed a dependence to amphetamines, and want to stop-it is best to seek professional help. Abruptly quitting may bring on withdrawal symptoms that may cause unwanted effects. Some of the symptoms that you may experience from withdrawal can include:
- Restlessness
- Problems concentrating
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Panic attacks
- Muscular pain
- Extreme fatigue
- Cravings for more amphetamine
- Depression
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Aggressive or hostile behavior
- Hunger
- Excessive sleep
- Nightmares
- Irregular heartbeat
These are symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal that some users have experienced when they tried to quit the drug. Not everyone may be affected the same way. Some may not experience any of these symptoms, but many can expect a combination of the symptoms listed above. The safest way to prevent the unpleasant, or dangerous effects of withdrawal is to seek professional treatment. Withdrawal can have an impact on the emotional state of mind, and overall well-being.
What Type of Treatment is Available?
Restlessness, problems concentrating, and anxiety are all potential signs of withdrawal from amphetamines.
Treatment methods may vary for individual users. It can depend on the amount of amphetamine taken, the length of time using the drug, and how often the drug was used. The more intoxicated an individual has become, the more specialized treatment may be, and can include a combination of these treatment methods:
- Detox: an important beginning to eliminate the amphetamine drug from your body. Amphetamines contain many harmful toxins, and to start on the path of becoming drug-free, many users seek medical detox to ensure safe withdrawal, and avoid health complications.
- Medication-assisted withdrawal: Medication can be available for those that need it. If you have become severely addicted to amphetamines, then certain medications can help reduce or eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of withdrawal.
- Counseling and therapy: One-on-one therapy, group counseling, and behavior therapies – like cognitive behavior therapy- can also be helpful in the treatment process. Once the drug is out of the system, it is important to also treat psychological effects caused by the drug.
Other options may be available depending on the individual’s needs. Some may require additional resources, especially those that suffer from a mental illness -which they may have had prior to starting on amphetamines. Options may also vary by treatment center chosen. Certain centers may not be able to address all your needs.
Contacting a licensed substance abuse professional will be the best decision you make. They can answer questions regarding amphetamine withdrawal, and any other concerns you may have. Don’t let the drug take control of your life, treatment can put your life back on track, and improve your overall health.