University:
York University
Course:
AP/SOSC 3118 | Drugs And Society
Academic year:

2024
Views:

96

Pages:

3
Author:

Nick T.

Amphetamine: Absorption and Elimination Peak effects occur: - 1.5 hours after oral ingestion 5 to 20 minutes after intranasal administration S to lo minutes following intravenous injection or smoking • half-life 5 to 12 hours Completely eliminated within 2 to 3 days of the last dose rapid tolerance or a tachyphylaxis can occur after high doses Beneficial Uses of Amphetamine • depression treatment of choice during the 1950s and early 1960s now used as an adiunctive therapy major advantage: antidepressant effects occur relatively rapidly weight Control in the mid 1960s, it was widely used to reduce appetite and food intouce For Short periods of time methamphetamine is currently FDA approved long term effects on obesity are unclear narcolepsy uncontrolled daytime episodes of muscular weakness and falling asirep amphetamines and other Stimulants are used to keep patients auvake during the day Smart pills" may improve performance that had been disrupted by fatigue or sleep deprivation at low doses may decrease complex performances at high doses. athletics may produce slight improvements in athletic performance at appropriate doses under some circumstances treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD Characterized by problems of inattention and hyperactivity amphetamines reduce activity levels and improve concentration in hyperactive children and adults Stimulant medications can reverse catecholamine-associated deficits that may underlie ADHD Concerns about abuse and side effects have led to other treatment options * Suppression of height and weight increases during drug treatment is a drawback of stimulant therapy * data suggest that stimulant therapy is protective against substance abuse Concerns About Amphetamine: Acute Toxicity • acute behavioral toxicity can cause dangers. user may become suspicious to the point of paranoia when higher doses are administered for extended periods when this is combined with lack of sleep or poor nutrition, there is even greater Concern about the psychological and physical well-being of the personConcerns About Amphetamine: Chronic Toxicity paranoid psychosis may result after sustained amphetamine use - Psychosis may result from dopaminergic Stimulation, probably in the mesolimbic System no good evidence far permanent behavioral or personality disruption exists