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This Page was last reviewed and changed on January 10th, 2023
Amphetamine detox
Due to the unpredictable nature of amphetamine addiction, withdrawal and detox from amphetamines can be both physically and mentally taxing. The compulsion to consume amphetamines may take hold of you quickly and lead to a number of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms should you try to stop.
During amphetamine detoxification, your body will expel toxic and harmful substances that have accumulated. With the help of our experienced team, your amphetamine detox will be comfortable, safe, and, most importantly, successful.
Read on to learn about the amphetamine withdrawal period and detox timeline, the benefits of amphetamine detox, and the treatment options available to you.
Amphetamine withdrawal
Amphetamines are psychiatric drugs that alter the chemical makeup of your brain and impact the production of several neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. Regular use of these drugs will result in the brain reducing its natural production of neurotransmitters, and therefore you will experience withdrawal symptoms should you try to quit.
Cessation of amphetamine use will send the brain into shock as it tries to re-adjust, and this causes a number of uncomfortable symptoms. These may include:
- Increased appetite
- Aches and pains
- Delayed reactions and slowed movements
- Agitation and irritability
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia
- Involuntary movements and twitches
- Bodily tremors
- Insomnia
- Vivid nightmares
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
- Seizures
In view of the dangerous side effects that can occur during the withdrawal process, it is advisable to attend a private facility in order to detox safely and comfortably. At Primrose Lodge, you will detox under the supervision of medical professionals who can administer medication to ensure your symptoms remain manageable throughout.
Amphetamine detox timeline
Amphetamines remain in the body for a long period of time compared to other drugs, and so the detox and withdrawal period can also linger. Clients will typically detox for one to two weeks; however, this may go up to three weeks in acute cases. Your timeline will largely depend on the type of amphetamine used, the quantities consumed, and the duration of abuse.
Below is an approximate guideline that you may expect to see during amphetamine detox:
One to twenty-four hours after use…
Amphetamine withdrawal symptoms may begin to show within the first few hours after use. You will potentially experience:
- Agitation and irritability
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Aches and pains
- Amphetamine cravings
One to four days after use…
During this time, amphetamine withdrawal symptoms will intensify as your brain tries to adjust. You will see a number of unpleasant side effects materialise, including:
- Intense fatigue and exhaustion
- Anxiety and depression
- Agitation and irritability
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Impaired social functioning
- Increased appetite
Five to seven days (and up to three weeks)…
At this stage, the worst of your amphetamine detox is over. You will notice withdrawal symptoms beginning to subside, although you may still experience cravings.
In particularly severe cases, symptoms may continue for up to three weeks. These can include:
- Muscle tremors
- Psychosis
- Mood swings
Which medications are used during amphetamine detox?
Whilst undergoing detox for amphetamine addiction, your doctor may prescribe medications to ease your withdrawal symptoms and manage any side effects. Firstly, your doctor will make an assessment based on the severity of your substance abuse and your general health. As everyone experiences detox differently, medications will vary on a case-by-case basis. They may include sleeping aids, anti-anxiety medications, and antidepressants.
Your doctor will also control and monitor the intake of any medications to prevent habits from once again forming with another substance. This allows you and your loved ones to rest assured your recovery is not affected.
Can I detox from amphetamine at home?
We often hear this question asked as home detoxing can seem more appealing for a number of reasons – you may want to stay in the comfort of your own home, the prospect of discussing your drug use could hold you back from attending a treatment programme, or you may be concerned about the cost of a private facility. Detoxing from amphetamines at home, however, carries high risks and is not recommended.
Attempting to combat amphetamine detox on your own leaves you exposed to your usual daily stressors and triggers that initially led to your drug use. Without access to medication, amphetamine withdrawal symptoms will be heightened and can also increase your chances of relapsing.
On top of this, you will not have provisions for psychological treatment and therapy or acknowledgement of co-existing mental health issues that may be perpetuating your drug use. Our amphetamine rehab programme provides you will a comprehensive and holistic rehab treatment that is indispensable for maintaining your sobriety.
The benefits of amphetamine detox
Attending a private inpatient rehab centre like Primrose Lodge significantly boosts your chances of success compared to a home detox, community programme, or outpatient treatment. In the comfort of a serene and therapeutic environment, our patients are able to fully focus on their recovery away from day-to-day stress or worries. Our team of experienced addiction specialists aim to deliver the very best care and is available to support you 24/7.
By accomplishing amphetamine detox, you will also begin to notice many physical and psychological benefits. These include:
- A healthier outlook on life
- Improved physical health
- Opportunities to work on relationships
- Re-starting your career or studies
- Taking up hobbies that you used to enjoy
Although amphetamine detox is only the beginning of your journey, it is an important hurdle that sets you up for a positive and successful recovery. Not only will your body start to heal, but you will have gained confidence knowing that you can overcome any difficulties that present themselves.
Contact us
If you think amphetamine detox and treatment will be advantageous to you and your onward sobriety, don’t hesitate to get in contact. Our team is available to answer your questions, advise you and your loved ones on amphetamine detox, and lend a listening ear.
Start amphetamine rehab treatment today, and you will be one step closer to a happy, healthy, and clean life.