In several of our previous posts, there are two substances that have been deemed as the most commonly abused: amphetamines and cocaine. These two substances have several things in common; they both lead to tolerance and psychological dependence, and are classified as stimulants of the central nervous system. An article on Tescountry.com shares a comparison between the two drugs, and for this post we will only dwell on the symptoms of their abuse.
Amphetamines arrived in the market in the 1930s, mainly as a medicine for the treatment of nasal congestion. During the Second World War, amphetamines were used by soldiers to keep themselves alert; the drug was also prescribed for weight loss. Nowadays, though, amphetamines have limited use, mainly for the treatment of ADHD, narcolepsy, and Parkinson’s disease.
Those who abuse amphetamines exhibit various symptoms, which have been classified into four: behavioral symptoms, psychiatric symptoms, physical symptoms, and life-threatening symptoms. Amphetamine users tend to be irritable and confused, and exercise poor judgment. They alternately exhibit euphoria and anger.
Amphetamine users tend to suffer from depression and other such mood disorders, including paranoia. Physically, one can notice weight loss and dilated pupils in someone who is suffering from amphetamine abuse. Amphetamine abuse can sometimes lead to seizures and cardiac arrhythmias, among other life-threatening conditions.
Cocaine users essentially exhibit similar symptoms as those who abuse amphetamines. They also suffer from various mood and anxiety disorders, and have episodes of delirium, hallucination and delusion. They too tend to have dilated pupils, and have increased heart rate and blood pressure. Those who abuse cocaine may suffer from insomnia and compulsive behavior.
Tags: Amphetamine abuse, Amphetamine addiction, Amphetamines abuse, cocaine abuse, cocaine addiction
