Drugs A to Z

Amphetamine

aka: speed, whizz, billy phet, sulphate, pep pills, paste, base ice, blues, uppers, black bombers, crystal, crystal meth, crack, ice

What is it?

Amphetamines work by stimulating the central nervous system. People use it to stay awake. Its appearance differs; when in powder form, it is an off white or pinkish colour and sometimes looks like small crystals. It’s usually sold in wraps like cocaine. Base speed is purer and is a pinkish-grey putty like substance.

Crystal meth is methamphetamine, which is the strongest amphetamine. This gives a more intensive rush. It is clear and crystalline and is smokeable.

How is it taken

Speed comes in powder form, which can be snorted, or dissolved for injection. It also comes in tablets that can be swallowed. . It also comes in a crystal form and can be smoked. A Speedbomb is when amphetamine base is rolled up in a cigarette paper and swallowed.

What are the effects?

• Speed makes you feel confident, energetic and alert.
• It makes you feel happy and euphoric.
• It can heighten sexual pleasure.
• It makes you feel wide awake and chatty.
• It stops you feeling hungry.
• You can’t sit still or sleep.

What are the risks?

• The come down makes you feel irritable and depressed which can last a few days.
• You can overdose on it, and it is psychologically addictive.
• It can increase your heart rate and body temperature.
• It can make some people feel violent.
• It can make you feel paranoid.
• Mixing it with other drugs or alcohol can be fatal.
• It can make you dehydrated.
• The more you take, the more you need to get the same buzz.
• The long term effects can produce significant periods of depression.

Injecting

If you are injecting, there is a greater risk of overdosing and injecting brings on many other problems, e.g. vein damage, ulcers and gangrene. If you use dirty needles, you are at risk from HIV and Hepatitis. Use needle exchanges to get clean needles. Phone 01452 503186 or 01452 381166 to find your local needle exchange.

How much is it?

A wrap can cost between £8 - £12.

The Law

Speed is a Class B drug

The Law

Staying Safe

• Try to maintain normal work patterns, diet and sleep routine, as far as possible.
  
• Use a limited amount on an occasional basis, taking breaks from use.
  
• Allow enough time to recover from a session and let the body recharge.
  
• Don't overdo strenuous physical activity.
  
• If engaged in physical activity such as dancing or running take breaks and drink water to replace lost bodily fluids.
  
• Reassure and talk down users who become anxious.
  
• If injecting use clean equipment, take great care and do not share works.
  
• Do not mix with other drugs.
  
• Remember safe sex.