Speed

speed

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WHAT IS SPEED?

• Speed (amphetamine or methamphetamine) is a stimulant drug.
• It produces alertness, confidence and raises levels of energy and stamina.
• It reduces appetite and lessens the desire and ability to sleep.

IS SPEED ADDICTIVE?

• Regular use can produce a need to increase the dose to get the same effect, and can lead to physical dependence on the drug.
• Speed can produce a powerful craving for more of the drug.
• Long-term use can result in serious mental and physical problems.

HOW IS SPEED USED?

• Speed can be swallowed, snorted, smoked, or injected.
• Swallowing is the safest method of using speed. The effects come on gradually and last longer than with other methods.
• Snorting speed takes effect faster than swallowing but it can damage the nose.
• Smoking speed takes effect immediately and can more easily lead to addiction.
• Injecting is the riskiest method of using speed.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF INJECTING?

• The dose reaches the brain almost immediately, increasing the possibility of overdose.
• Impurities are introduced directly into the bloodstream and can cause septicemia and other infections.
• Repeated injections damage the veins, leading to thrombosis and abscesses.
• Sharing syringes can cause hepatitis and HIV, the virus that can cause AIDS.
• Clean needles are available from needle exchange programs.

BE CAREFUL

• The 'comedown' off speed can make you feel tired, lethargic and depressed. This may tempt users to take more, and can lead to dependency.
• Speed users are at higher HIV and hepatitis risk through unsafe sex and needle sharing.
• Although rare, speed can cause seizures, heart attacks, strokes, and death from overdose.
• Many users become physically run down, which leaves them susceptible to a wide range of illnesses.

  

• Extended use of speed can cause psychosis. The user may think that everybody is out to get them, or that they are being followed or watched.
• Mixing speed with other drugs, particularly other stimulants, can increase the risk of adverse reactions.
• Speed is illegal. Possession can result in long prison terms.