Main short and long term adverse physical and mental effects that may appear in methamphetamine use.
ADDERALL vs METHAMPHETAMINE
Adderall and Metamphetamine are both drugs which have a high potential for abuse. Although used as prescription drugs in some cases, its recreational use can lead to addiction. The article below will help you understand the difference between the two.
What is Adderall and Methamphetamine?
Adderall, also known as amphetamine mixed salts, is a drug used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and Narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder caused by the inability of the brain to regulate sleep-wake cycles. Studies show that long term treatment with amphetamines decreases the abnormality of the structure and function of the brain found in people with ADHD. Amphetamines have also been proven to reduce disruptive behaviors and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Children on amphetamines have also shown subsequent improvements in terms of relationships with family members, in terms of attention spans and a slight change in I.Q levels. They become less impulsive.
Amphetamines improve memory and are therefore used as a test taking aid by many students to enhance performance during examinations. It is also used by athletes to increase stamina and performance. Therefore, it’s common knowledge that recreationally, amphetamines are highly misused.
Methamphetamine, in contrast, is a white crystalline drug, also known as crystal meth. It is a psychotic stimulant that is used for the treatment of obesity and to some extent for ADHD. However, it is rarely prescribed because of the high risk involved of being a highly addictive substance. Recreationally, methamphetamine is used to increase sexual desire, elevate mood and increase energy. Unlike amphetamine, methamphetamine is a neurotoxic drug which causes brain damage. People who abuse the drug consume it by inhaling it through the nose, smoking it or injecting it with a needle. Some even take it orally and feel like continuing with it because of the sense of well-being it offers. However, it destroys the life of the user from the very beginning. Crystal meth is used by individuals of all ages, but is most commonly used as a “club drug,” taken while partying in night clubs or at rave parties.
Difference between their SIDE EFFECTS:
The side effects vary on the amount of drug used. Adderall impairs thinking and reactions. The most common side effects include irregular heartbeats, elevated or reduced blood pressure, dry mouth, fast and deep breaths, pain or burning sensation while passing urine, painful erection of the penis which is a rare side effect, talking more than usual, extreme happiness or sadness, alertness, insomnia and mood swings. If you are prescribed Adderall and experience any of these symptoms while on the medication, it is important to consult the prescribing doctor immediately.
Methamphetamine is a dangerous and potent chemical that first acts as a stimulant but then begins to systematically destroy the body. Thus, it is associated with serious conditions, including memory loss, aggression, psychotic behavior and potential heart and brain damage. Loss of appetite, hyperactivity, dilated pupils, flushed skin, irregular heart-beats, hypertension, hypotension, dry skin and dizziness are some of the other side effects. MOre serious effects can include insomnia, confusion, hallucinations, anxiety and paranoia. In some cases, overdose can cause convulsions that lead to death. An important side effect which must be made note of is the “meth-mouth” The toxic ingredients in methamphetamine lead to severe tooth decay which causes the teeth to become loose abnormally quickly. The teeth become black, stained, and rotten, often to the point where they have to be removed.
Summary:
Adderall is a salt of amphetamine which is prescribedd for ADHD, narcolepsy and abused recreationally as a performance enhancing drug. Methamphetamine or crystal meth is a highly addictive narcotic drug with more health risks than benefits and is classified illegal worldwide. It absolutely must not be consumed owing to serious threat to life.