Speed is a common drug that people buy off the streets. The speed drug, which is the street name for amphetamines or methamphetamines, is highly addictive.
Speed drugs are often used by young people because they are often cheap, easy to get, and offer a strong high. They are also popular with people who have trouble sleeping at night. However, the effects of speed on the body are very negative. People can experience problems with their cardiovascular system or increased risk of cancer if they take this drug.
To completely understand a speed addiction, you first have to learn more about this dangerous drug from our drug rehab center in Portland.
What Is the Speed Drug?
The name “speed” can apply to a variety of drugs. However, it usually refers to amphetamines or methamphetamines, which are similar substances. The speed drug gets its name from the fact that taking it causes hyperactivity and wakefulness.
Speed comes in a white powder or as a colored tablet. Although less common, it can also refer to crystal meth, which comes in a chunky crystal.
The speed drug is also called “uppers” because it causes people to become more energetic and excited. However, the high only lasts a few hours before it wears off and leaves users feeling tired. People who take this drug may find themselves unable to stop taking it after one use. This can lead to abuse of the speed drug over time.
People have lots of options when it comes to taking speed, and the most common include:
- Smoking
- Snorting
- Injecting
- Swallowing
Regardless of how people take speed, the results are always dangerous. It’s very addictive, and people can develop an addiction after just one use. Using speed for a long period of time can cause significant damage to internal organs as well.
Signs of Speed Addiction
There are many signs and symptoms of speed drug addiction that can be seen in a person. If you know someone who is using speed, it is important to watch for these signs as they will show you that your loved one needs help.
Speed causes a number of mental and physical health problems over time. The earlier that people stop taking the speed drug, the better off they’ll be.
However, they typically don’t want to stop. It’s up to family and friends to get them help. To help others, they first have to know the signs of speed addiction.
Like most addictive drugs, the signs of speed addiction change from person to person. They also change the longer that people take the drug. Going into debt and losing interest in family activities are often signs of speed usage. The drug becomes all that they care about.
Of course, going into debt doesn’t always mean that someone has a speed addiction. That’s why it’s important to look for physical signs of speed drug abuse too. Some common physical signs include:
- Skin problems
- Tremors
- Loss of appetite
- Hyperactivity
The longer that people use the drug, the worse that these symptoms become.
Speed Withdrawal
Similar to hard drugs, trying to stop taking speed can result in withdrawal symptoms, which vary between people. In general, the symptoms are worse the longer that people use the drug. The most common symptoms include aggressive behavior, overwhelming panic, and muscle twitches.
However, more extreme withdrawal symptoms can occur when people stop taking speed after long-term use. For example, some people experience rapid breathing, seizures, convulsions, and vomiting. Because of these extreme symptoms, people should always seek professional help at a drug detox center.
Speed Drug Rehab in Portland
Speed addiction treatment is a specialized form of addiction treatment designed to help people struggling with the misuse of amphetamines. This type of treatment can involve individual counseling, group therapy, support groups, and other evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or contingency management.
It focuses on helping individuals recognize their patterns of behavior associated with addiction, such as seeking out more dangerous situations or lying to others about their use of the substance. It also helps individuals develop healthier coping skills and techniques for managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Ultimately, Speed Addiction Treatment is designed to help people overcome their addiction so they can lead a healthy, productive life.
At Crestview Recovery, we understand the demanding nature of drug addiction. We strive to provide our clients with the help and support that they need. To provide this support, we create custom rehab addiction programs to fit the individual needs of our clients. We use a variety of programs to create these custom plans, such as:
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Partial hospitalization
- Dual diagnosis therapy
We also offer other programs to give our clients an edge against their drug addiction. For example, we offer an extended care program that lasts for 90 days. Our master-level therapists and experienced counselors also offer individual and trauma therapy.
Get the Help You Need With Crestview Recovery
With the right treatment plan and support system in place, you can learn how to live an addiction-free life. All you need is the right help.
At Crestview Recovery, we aim to treat all substance use disorders. In fact, we offer treatment not only for speed but also for heroin, cocaine, and alcohol. We believe that no two addictions are the same and customize each treatment plan accordingly.
Don’t spend another day at the mercy of your drug addiction. Fight back, and reclaim your life. Reach out to Crestview Recovery today at 866.262.0531 for more information.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
