In the vernacular, there’s little difference when talking about methamphetamine vs amphetamine. For someone struggling with addiction, using the right terminology makes all the difference. Both substances are not the same. That said, there are several similarities.
What Separates Amphetamine from Methamphetamine?
For starters, amphetamines are usually legal drugs with medicinal purposes. Doctors use them to assist qualified patients with weight loss or ADHD symptom management. In the amphetamine vs methamphetamine debate, it bears mentioning that methamphetamine doesn’t have a popular medicinal purpose. It’s an illegal substance in most jurisdictions.
Chemically speaking, amphetamine is methylated phenylethylamine. Chemists refer to methamphetamine as double methylated phenylethylamine. Although one is a legal drug with multiple uses, don’t let this give you a false sense of security. In spite of their differences, these substances are far more alike than you might imagine.
Methamphetamine vs Amphetamine–Similarities
Both substances are potent stimulants. They can boost alertness and productivity. Moreover, these drugs increase dopamine levels in the brain. If you use amphetamines according to a doctor’s instructions, you benefit from an increase in energy.
When you abuse either substance, you may experience bouts of euphoria. Both substances have addiction potential. Dry mouth is a common side effect, which leads to the development of meth mouth. Experts suggest that meth addiction happens faster than amphetamine addiction.
In many cases, this has to do with the potency of the drug. Besides that, methamphetamine crosses the blood-brain barrier much more easily. Therefore, you experience a more immediate and powerful high than you might when abusing amphetamines. That said, you also deal with withdrawal symptoms that are more unpleasant.
Overcoming Dependency on Either Drug
Abuse of methamphetamine vs amphetamine, either substance, can result in addiction. When you want to quit, you deal with withdrawal symptoms. Depending on your typical dose, the drug of choice, and length of abuse, symptoms may vary. Typical symptoms are anxiety, depression, significant mood swings, headaches, and overeating.
Some people have a difficult time sleeping and may deal with hallucinations. Checking into a prescription drug detox program is the best option. You work with therapists who help you have a pain-free and positive withdrawal experience. Treatments include:
- Medical detox with supervision of the withdrawal process that protects your health and overall sense of wellbeing
- A psychotherapy program that helps you through bouts of depression or anxiety
- Pharmacological support to assist with cravings and withdrawal symptoms management
- Meditation therapy as a way to ground yourself, which benefits your overall wellness throughout the process
- Chiropractic care that relieves aching or tense muscles, which helps you to relax and rest better throughout your stay
Reach out for Help
Addiction to either substance won’t get better by itself. Instead, it can result in far-reaching personal, professional, and health-related consequences. Now that you understand what fuels the methamphetamine vs amphetamine debate, isn’t it time to seek help? Reach out for help to the addiction specialists at Serenity House Detox & Recovery by calling 866.516.8356 today. Make the call.
