SPEED KILLS

• Amphetamine is a synthetic stimulant. The pharmacological action of this drug is quite simple by stimulating the central nervous system it produces euphoria, self-confidence, energy, alertness and endurance.

• Abuse of amphetamine is popular among teenagers due to the overall sense of well being and exaggerated energy levels that it produces.

• Illicit amphetamine comes in the form of crystals, chunks, fine to course powder off white to yellow in colour, also in capsules or tablet form.

• Amphetamine can be sniffed, smoked, injected or taken orally. A new smokable form known as 'Ice' because of its transparent crystals is a very strong form of 'speed' producing a more intense and rapid high.

• Amphetamine addiction is both physical and psychological, it is a drug that the body quickly builds up a tolerance to, necessitating a higher dose to get stoned.

• Problems associated with over indulgence of amphetamines have to do with the patterns of use, living and thinking it encourages. Little sleep, bad eating habits and erratic exaggerated behaviour.

LONG TERM USE CAN CAUSE:

• Many problems if the drug is injected, e.g., high risk group for HIV infections, abscesses, blood poisoning etc.
• Chronic sleeping problems.
• Bursts of ill temper.
• Persistent anxiety.
• Malnourishment due to suppressed appetite.
• Skin rashes.
• Speeded-up and erratic heart beat.
• Violence towards self and others.
• Over active repetitive behaviour.
• Long time users can develop an amphetamine psychosis with hallucinations, thought disorders and paranoid episodes

DEATH CAUSED BY:

• Violence to self and others.
• Hazards of injecting.
• Collapsed blood vessels.
• Extreme rise in blood pressure and heart failure.

WARNING:
Prescription of this drug is discouraged whenever possible because of the drug's frequent misuse. Unauthorised production, supply or possession is an offence