Amphetamines: Everything you need to know

Amphetamines are a psycho-stimulant drug that abnormally speeds up the function of the brain and body. Long-term amphetamine misuse can damage the brain and may lead to psychosis, malnutrition and violent behaviour. There are both legal and illegal forms of amphetamines. Legal forms, such as dexamphetamine, are used for the treatment of conditions such as ADHD and must be prescribed by a doctor. Illegal forms such as methamphetamine (speed, base, ice) and ecstasy can, if detected, cost you your job or even your life.

Effects of using Amphetamines

Amphetamines are central nervous stimulants that cause the neurotransmitters epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine to be released into the brain and body giving users feelings of euphoria, alertness, and increased energy.

Some indicators of the effects of using amphetamines are:

  • Increased blood pressure
  • Increased alertness
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Excessive sweating
  • Dilated pupils
  • Jaw clenching and shuddering
  • Dry mouth
  • Loss of appetite

Associated Risks

Illegal amphetamines are usually produced in laboratories by self-taught drug manufacturers and adhere to absolutely no regulations or rules when it comes to creating the drug. This can lead to manufacturers cutting the drug down with different substances so they can yield more drugs and more profit. Dangerous fillers are often used to cut the drug.

How long do Amphetamines stay in your system?

Even if the effects of the amphetamines have worn off, there may still be amphetamines in your system. Generally speaking, in 24 hours approximately 79% of the amphetamine dose is excreted in acid urine and about 45% in alkaline urine. Typically, about 20% is excreted as unchanged amphetamine. Unchanged amphetamine can be detected up to 1 –2 days after use.


1-2 days


12 hours (approximately)

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