It is a much purer, and therefore stronger, form of meth (~80%) that is far more addictive and dangerous. Crystal meth (also known as “ice”)is a different form of meth that looks like a crystal-like rock. The base is an oily yellowish or brownish paste-like substance whose version of meth has a slightly higher purity and potency (~20%), is often injected or swallowed. It is often snorted and the least potent version of the drug (~10%). The most common form of meth is a fine white or off-white powder commonly referred to as “speed”). Both what it’s called and the ways meth is used are largely determined by its physical form. Meth goes by many names and can be used in a number of methods: smoked snorted, swallowed, or injected. This in addition to the intention with which meth is used is the greatest difference between the two substances. However, meth is much more powerful than prescription stimulants and other amphetamines in general. Meth both increases the levels of dopamine and blocks its reuptake, which leads to extremely high concentrations of dopamine in the brain. The two have similar molecular structures, similar mechanisms of how they work, and therefore have similar effects such as euphoria and increased energy. Methamphetamine is a kind of amphetamine. Illegally manufactured amphetamines pose much higher risks to both medical and non-medical users as they can be cut with all sorts of harmful substances which can significantly increase the drug’s effects and the likelihood of causing addiction). those with a medical need) are unlikely to become addicted from following dosage instructions. However, even those with a prescription may experience addiction if they frequently take too-large doses. The addiction potential of medicinal amphetamines is highest for non-medical use. Abusers must then contend with the long-lasting physiological effects (racing heart, tremors, blurry vision, impaired motor function) which can persist for up to 12 hours. The effects of amphetamines can last from as little to one minute or up to 4-6 hours, depending on the substance. Chronic stimulant abuse will often carry psychological side effects as well such as the development of serious mental illness.Īmphetamine vs Methamphetamine: amphetamines are typically found in a tablet or capsule form for oral consumption (though individuals abusing these medications may snort, smoke, or inject them). Even first-time use of this drug can result in a number of adverse effects that cause short and long-term health issues-as well as death. Stimulant use puts immense strain on the body.

While these effects might seem positive, they come at a significant cost. This translates to increased respiratory and cardiovascular function and unnaturally high levels of dopamine being released into the body which are responsible for the tell-tale markers of a stimulant high: As their name implies, these drugs stimulate the body by increasing the rate at which central nervous system signals are sent and received. There are both licit and illicit types of stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, and ADHD medication Adderall. Stimulants are one of seven types of the seven drug categories. Has effects that are more harmful and longer-lasting than amphetamines.Is more often illegally manufactured, distributed, and consumed.Is very rarely used for medical purposes (although it does have some).Technically, meth is a type of amphetamine, but is classified separately and has been since 2015. The main similarities between the two are 1) their drug classification and 2) their shared potential to be dangerous.Īlthough both amphetamines and methamphetamines are stimulants, meth: You’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise, after all, ‘amphetamine’ is in the name of both substances. A Brief Look at Amphetamines vs Methamphetaminesįirst off, let’s establish that both amphetamine and methamphetamine are indeed two distinct types of drugs. What are the differences between amphetamines vs methamphetamines? Which one is more dangerous? Here’s everything you need to know about what they are and how these two types of drugs work. Although both substances are classified as stimulants or “uppers” and Schedule II drugs, there are meaningful differences in how powerful these drugs are, how addictive they can be, and the long-term consequences of abuse. These four letters aren’t all that distinguish amphetamines and methamphetamines from one another.

Amphetamine vs methamphetamine