Also known as speed, uppers, ice, crystal meth, whiz, whip, rock, goey, base, paste, dexies, meth
Amphetamines are stimulant drugs. They take the forms of powder, tablets, capsules, crystal or paste. Use can be legal or illegal. Examples include:
How they are used depends on what form it comes in. Amphetamines can be swallowed, injected, smoked, snorted or rubbed on gums.
Effects of amphetamines
Effects depend on the person (age, weight, size, health and tolerance), as well as the strength, the amount taken, and if taken with other drugs, including alcohol. When swallowed (effects are felt in about 30 minutes), injecting (almost immediately) and snorting (3 to 5 minutes). As it wears off, you may experience “comedown” effects, which can last 2 to 3 days.
Short-term effects, both desired and undesired, may include…
Long-term effects may include…
Effects from overdosing: chills or fever, chest pain or irregular or increased heart rate, difficulty breathing or urinating, fits or seizures (uncontrolled jerking), extreme agitation and confusion, paranoia, kidney damage, stroke, unconscious, heart attack or death.
If a person is experiencing an overdose or is unresponsive call 000 for an ambulance. If unconscious, put them in the recovery position. If not breathing, start CPR. Paramedics won’t involve police unless the person is a danger to themselves or others.
How long do amphetamines stay in your system?
Depends on use and person. Effects generally last 6 to 12 hours. They can be detected in saliva 2 to 4 days, in urine 3 to 5 days, in blood up to 3 days and in hair up to 3 months.
There is no safe way to use amphetamines. There will always be a health risk. The only way to be safe is not to use. If you choose to use, the following will help reduce risk.
Before: take a friend and tell them what you plan on using, plan how to get home (to avoid driving under the influence), use new or clean equipment (boil equipment to clean it). Injecting is not recommended, though if choosing to inject, get your own clean, sharp syringe and find a clean location.
During: go slow, start with a low dose then wait an hour to see effects before having a bit more, know and keep to your limits. Safely dispose of syringes.
Avoid: using amphetamines with other drugs, including alcohol, using too much or too often, needle or equipment sharing. While using don’t be alone, don’t do risky activities or be responsible for the care of others.
It may be a problem if you agree with any of these statements:
It is illegal to use, possess, make or sell amphetamines in Australia, for purposes other than prescribed medicinal use. It is also illegal to possess any implement for using amphetamines (such as a pipe). In Queensland, it is illegal to possess needles or syringes if they are not disposed of safely and therefore pose a risk to others.
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In an emergency, call an ambulance: 000
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
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Alcohol & Drug Information Service: 1800 177 833
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