In the terminology of stimulant medications, methamphetamine and amphetamine are often interchanged. They’re similar in effects, legality, and risk for harm and addiction, though they are not identical.
In this blog, we will discuss meth vs. amphetamine in detail to help you understand the concept better.
What are Methamphetamine & Amphetamine?
Methamphetamine and amphetamine tend to be central nervous system stimulants with different structures and potencies. Amphetamine is present in medicines, including Adderall, and it is prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It works by boosting brain neurotransmitter levels, concentration, energy, and alertness.
Methamphetamine has the same structure but has an additional methyl group to make it more powerful and more easily pass the blood-brain barrier. Even though it has minimal health uses (it is recommended under the name Desoxyn for extreme cases of obesity and ADHD), methamphetamine is more frequently associated with illicit use due to its potent euphoric effects. This regrettably increases abuse and addiction rates and increases health risks, including physical and psychological side effects.
Distinctions Between Methamphetamine & Amphetamine
Methamphetamine & amphetamine differ in potency, use, and risks. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the primary differences between amphetamine and methamphetamine, their legal status, and societal perceptions.
Chemical Structure & Potency
Though methamphetamine possesses a similar chemical foundation as amphetamine, methamphetamine has a different methyl group. This small chemical change impacts how these medications function in the human brain. Methamphetamine is more substantial compared to amphetamine.
It works quickly and crosses the blood-brain barrier, creating powerful and faster effects. This makes methamphetamine a more potent central nervous system stimulant, creating enhanced euphoria and also, sadly, higher chances of dependency and adverse effects.
Medical Uses & Legal Status
Amphetamine is also prescribed in medicines, including Vyvanse and Adderall, for the treatment of narcolepsy and ADHD. These prescriptions will be legal if filled under medical supervision. Methamphetamine is seldom prescribed medically.
The only methamphetamine product FDA-approved is Desoxyn, which is specified in highly restricted circumstances for ADHD and severe obesity. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II substance in the United States because of its possible addiction and abuse potential.
Effects on Brain and Body
Both amphetamine and methamphetamine promote the brain’s release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to improved euphoria, energy, and attention. But methamphetamine has more potent effects. It results in a more significant release of dopamine associated with the ‘rush’ and a high potential for addiction.
Methamphetamine consumption may result in more serious neurological consequences than amphetamine – which includes cognitive deficits and changes in brain structure and function.
4. Addiction & Dependency
The possibility of addiction and dependency is more with methamphetamine than with amphetamine. The intense euphoric consequences and quick action of the brain place methamphetamine users at increased risk for developing a substance use disorder.
Withdrawal symptoms may also be a little more severe, for instance, mania, exhaustion, and increased appetite. Amphetamines do carry a risk of addiction when abused or even used with no medical supervision, though the risk is generally lower compared to that of methamphetamine.
5. Side Effects & Health Risks
Both medications have severe side effects when used for a long time or in big doses. Common side effects are excessive heart rate, hypertension, and insomnia. However, because of its better potency, methamphetamine has much more severe side effects.
They might include severe dental issues, extreme weight loss, skin sores, and increased risk for infectious diseases. Methamphetamine addiction may cause much more severe cardiovascular problems, neurological damage, and mental health disorders, including schizophrenia and psychosis.
Closing Thoughts
Knowing the difference between methamphetamine and amphetamine is vital for all those in or seeking recovery. Both are harmful. However, methamphetamine is particularly lethal because of its increased effects and potency. In case you or somebody you know is suffering from substance use, you need to seek out professional support and therapy according to your specific needs.
Recovery centers provide structured programs that could consist of detox, counseling, and support groups – that may be needed to overcome addiction. Education and knowledge could assist us in controlling the consequences of these substances and aid recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
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