What is Speed Drug? 10+ Facts About Speed Drug

Speed drugs, often lumped together under the umbrella of stimulants, have long posed a significant challenge in both healthcare and social contexts. This blog post aims to shed light on what speed drugs are, their effects on individuals, and the broader implications they have on society. In the realms of both legality and health, understanding these substances is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.

What is Speed Drug?

The term speed drug often refers to a street form of amphetamine sulfate. Speed is a synthetic stimulant, chemically similar to amphetamines used in medical treatments but typically found in powder or pill form on the street. It can vary greatly in purity and potency, often being mixed or ‘cut’ with other substances, which can increase the risks associated with its use. Unlike the broader category of speed drugs that includes various stimulants, when people mention speed in a recreational drug context, they are usually referring to this particular substance.

What drug is speed?

Speed is a stimulant, typically methamphetamine or amphetamine, known for its rapid, euphoric effects and high potential for addiction.

How long does Speed Drug (Amphetamine sulfate) Last?

The effects, influenced by dosage, body size, and food intake, typically last up to six hours, followed by a “crash” period of depression or anxiety.

Signs of Speed Abuse

• Excessive energy
• Unexplained weight loss
• Emotional instability
• Hyperactivity and skin sores

Types of Speed Drug and Street Names

Speed drugs encompass a range of stimulants, each with its own set of street names reflecting their presence in the illicit drug market. Key types include Amphetamine, often known on the streets as Speed, Uppers, or Black Beauties, widely used for its stimulating effects on the central nervous system. Methamphetamine, a more potent form, is commonly referred to as Meth, Crystal, Ice, or Blue. Its high potency makes it one of the most addictive and dangerous among speed drugs. Dextroamphetamine, used medically for ADHD and narcolepsy, is often illicitly referred to as Dexies or Addys when abused. Lisdexamfetamine, known as Vyvanse in its prescription form, garners nicknames like Liddy in illegal use. Each of these substances, despite their medical applications, carries a high risk of abuse and addiction, often heightened by their accessibility and varied street names that mask their potential danger.

Risks of Using Speed Drug

• Speed increases central nervous system activity but can lead to exhaustion, depression, and addiction.
• Side effects include headaches, anxiety, high blood pressure, and long-term health issues like heart problems and brain damage.

Speed (Amphetamine Sulfate) vs Meth

While both speed (amphetamine sulfate) and methamphetamine (commonly known as meth) belong to the class of drugs known as amphetamines, key differences exist in their chemical structure, effects, and associated risks. Speed, in its pharmaceutical form, is used for certain medical conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy, and is known for its stimulant effects that increase alertness and energy.

Methamphetamine, however, has a more potent effect on the central nervous system. Its additional methyl group allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier more rapidly, leading to more intense and quicker euphoric effects. This difference also makes meth more addictive and increases the risk of severe neurological and psychological side effects, including long-term cognitive impairment and mental health disorders. While both drugs carry risks of dependency and adverse health effects, methamphetamine is generally considered more dangerous due to its high potency, greater risk of addiction, and more severe impact on physical and mental health.

Long-Term Effects of Speed Drug Abuse

Prolonged abuse of speed can have devastating effects on the brain and body. Chronic use can lead to significant brain damage, particularly in areas responsible for memory, emotion, and executive functions, leading to cognitive impairments such as difficulty concentrating, memory loss, and impaired decision-making. Emotional instability, including severe mood swings, depression, and anxiety, is also common. These changes can be long-lasting and sometimes irreversible, highlighting the critical need for early intervention and treatment.

What are Speed Drugs?

Speed drugs, in the broadest sense, refer to a class of psychoactive substances known for their stimulant effects on the human nervous system. The term “speed” is typically used as a street name for amphetamines, a group of synthetic drugs that act as powerful central nervous system stimulants. These drugs are known for increasing alertness, attention, energy, and in some cases, inducing feelings of euphoria.

Amphetamines, including various forms such as dextroamphetamine, levoamphetamine, and methamphetamine, are the primary constituents of what are commonly referred to as speed drugs. These substances work by increasing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which leads to heightened arousal, stamina, and cognitive enhancement.

While some amphetamines are legally prescribed for specific medical conditions like ADHD (e.g., Adderall, which contains amphetamine salts) and narcolepsy, their use is strictly regulated due to their high potential for abuse and addiction. Illegal forms, particularly methamphetamine (often just called “meth”), are manufactured and sold illicitly, posing significant health risks.

Physical Effects of Speed Drugs

Initially, speed drugs can cause a surge in energy, rapid heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, and increased body temperature. These immediate physical effects are often what draw individuals to these substances. However, with prolonged use, the risks become more pronounced. Users may experience weight loss, dental decay (often referred to as “meth mouth”), and skin sores from picking at the skin.

The impact on the cardiovascular system is particularly concerning. Chronic use of speed drugs can lead to heart arrhythmias, heart attack, and even heart failure. The strain placed on the heart and arteries due to prolonged elevated heart rate and blood pressure is substantial, posing serious health risks.

Psychological Effects of Speed Drugs

On a psychological level, speed drugs initially induce feelings of euphoria, increased confidence, and sociability. However, these positive feelings are often short-lived. Long-term use can lead to severe mental health issues, including anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and aggressive behavior. The altered brain chemistry resulting from continued use can also lead to addiction, making it extremely difficult for users to stop despite negative consequences.

The risk of developing a psychological dependency is high. The brain’s reward system gets altered, leading to a relentless craving for the drug. This dependency can significantly impact an individual’s life, affecting relationships, employment, and overall well-being.

Are ADHD drugs Speed?

ADHD medications are not the same as speed. While some ADHD drugs, like Adderall, contain amphetamines, they are formulated and prescribed for controlled therapeutic use, differing significantly from the illicit drug speed, which is often methamphetamine. ADHD medications, including Adderall, Ritalin, and Vyvanse, are often categorized as stimulants. They work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine.

While these medications are stimulants, it’s important to distinguish them from what is commonly referred to as speed drugs in a recreational or illicit context. Speed drugs, such as methamphetamine, are often used illegally and are associated with high potential for abuse and addiction. They are consumed for their euphoric effects, leading to severe health and legal consequences.

In contrast, ADHD medications, when prescribed by a healthcare professional and used as directed, are part of a therapeutic treatment plan for ADHD. They are manufactured, dosed, and regulated to ensure safety and effectiveness in managing the symptoms of ADHD. The intention and regulated use of these medications are what set them apart from illicit speed drugs.

It’s crucial to understand this distinction to avoid the stigmatization of ADHD medications and their legitimate use in medical treatment. Misunderstanding or misrepresenting these medications can contribute to misconceptions and potentially discourage individuals from seeking appropriate treatment for ADHD.

Is Adderall a Speed Drug?

From a chemical compound standpoint, yes, Adderall can be classified as a speed drug in the sense that it contains amphetamines, which are stimulants similar to those found in illicit substances colloquially referred to as speed. Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, which are central nervous system stimulants. These stimulants affect chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. In terms of chemical structure and function, Adderall shares similarities with speed drugs, particularly amphetamines.

However, the key difference lies in the usage and regulation. Adderall, when prescribed and used correctly under medical supervision, is intended for the controlled treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. It is designed to help improve focus, attention, and control behavior. On the other hand, speed drugs like methamphetamine are often used illicitly for recreational purposes, leading to abuse and addiction.

Therefore, while chemically similar, the context of use and intention significantly differentiate Adderall from illicit speed drugs.

The controlled medical use of Adderall under prescription is a crucial aspect that separates it from the harmful and unregulated use of speed drugs.

The Rising Trend of Stimulant Use Among Adolescents: Causes and Effects

The use of stimulant drugs, or ‘uppers’, among adolescents is a growing concern. Various factors drive this trend, including academic pressures, social influences, and self-medication for untreated mental health issues. Substances commonly used in this category include prescription medications like Adderall and Ritalin, as well as illicit stimulants. The allure of these drugs for teenagers often lies in their perceived ability to enhance focus, energy, and academic performance. However, significant risks accompany this. These include addiction and adverse mental and physical health effects. The developing adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to these dangers.

The Toll on Relationships and Life

Addiction to speed can have a profound impact on personal relationships and overall life quality. The obsessive nature of addiction often leads individuals to prioritize drug use over family, friends, and work, resulting in isolation and strained connections. Relationships may suffer due to trust issues, financial problems, and neglect of responsibilities. The addict’s behavioral changes and unpredictability can further alienate them from their support network, exacerbating the sense of isolation and loneliness.

Detoxing from Meth or Speed

Detoxification from methamphetamine or speed is a physically and psychologically demanding process. It involves the body clearing itself of the drug, which can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as extreme fatigue, depression, and anxiety. The intensity of these symptoms often depends on the duration and severity of the addiction. Medical supervision during detox is crucial, as it can provide necessary support and interventions to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse.

Importance of Detox

Detox is an essential first step in breaking the cycle of addiction to speed or methamphetamine. It not only addresses the physical dependence on the drug but also lays the groundwork for comprehensive addiction treatment. Detoxification under medical supervision ensures safety and can mitigate the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. Following detox, individuals are better prepared to engage in further treatment modalities, such as therapy, counseling, and support groups, which address the underlying causes of addiction and promote long-term recovery.

Helping Teens and Young Adults

If concerned about a young person using speed, seek professional treatment. Contact Still Detox at (561) 556-2677 for support and guidance.