Dextroamphetamine is a type of medication that is prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also known more commonly as Dexedrine and belongs to the class of drugs referred to as stimulants. Less formally, it is known as an “upper” or a drug that produces high bursts of energy, extreme alertness and the intensified ability to focus on a singular activity.
What is Dextroamphetamine Used for in South Africa?
Dextroamphetamine, in South Africa and other parts of the world is a legally prescribed drug that is used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. There are many reported cases of the drug’s effectiveness in treating these medical problems. However, what we know about addiction today, is that amphetamines in their various forms, have a high potential for abuse and when used for prolonged periods of time, can lead to drug dependence. In the treatment community, we have found that those who have been prescribed dexotroamphetamine abuse the drug as well. Dexotroamphetamine is not only abused by those who use it for recreational purposes only.
What are the Side Effects of Dextroamphetamine Abuse?
The abuse of dextroamphetamines has been known to produce a number of adverse effects including visible and increasing levels of unexplained agitation, an irregular heartbeat, uncontrolled bodily movements and the inability to sleep. Because dextroamphetamine is a kind of stimulant, it disturbs the natural balance of chemicals in the brain and in the long-term, can cause extensive neurological damage, especially if it is being used without the supervision of a medical professional.
How Many Cases of Addiction are Reported?
In South Africa, dextroamphetamine is known by the medical community as the “study drug,” having derived this name from its common usage by students who struggle to concentrate for long periods of time. While there are no formal studies on the nonmedical use of this type of stimulant, cases of abuse and addiction, particularly amongst young people, are increasing but remain mainly unreported.
Like in the case of other drugs, dextroamphetamine addiction can be treated through extensive therapy in the form of support groups, individual counselling, life coaching and wellness programmes.
If you or a loved one is in search of help for addiction, know that help is readily available. Contact us for a free consultation and we’ll support you in your journey.
