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Amphetamine and Related Drugs

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The effects of amphetamines, especially methamphetamine,<br />

are similar to cocaine, but their onset is slower <strong>and</strong> their<br />

duration is longer. In contrast to cocaine, which is quickly<br />

removed from the brain <strong>and</strong> is almost completely metabolized,<br />

methamphetamine remains in the central nervous system<br />

longer, <strong>and</strong> a larger percentage of the drug remains unchanged<br />

in the body, producing prolonged stimulant effects. Chronic<br />

abuse produces a psychosis (severe mental disorder), picking<br />

at the skin, <strong>and</strong> visual hallucinations. These psychotic<br />

symptoms can persist for months <strong>and</strong> even years after use of<br />

these drugs has ceased <strong>and</strong> may be related to their neurotoxic<br />

effects. Violent <strong>and</strong> erratic behavior is frequently seen among<br />

chronic abusers of amphetamines, especially<br />

methamphetamine.<br />

4/27/2009 ٢١

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