How Much Does it Take?

How much is too much? Amphetamine abuse and addiction can create chaos for users and their families. Whether someone uses amphetamine to increase productivity or enhance partying, the negative long-term impacts override any positive short-term effects. The amphetamine overdose amount varies for everyone, but understanding the dangers could keep you or a loved one alive.

Amphetamine Overdose Amount: How Increased Tolerance Can Lead to Overdose

In general, amphetamines provide euphoria, increase focus and suppress appetite. In the beginning, recreational users love these effects. It’s essentially what keeps them coming back for more. However, that “chase” can lead to negative consequences.

Over time, individuals develop a tolerance. Eventually, they end up needing more and more of the drug to replicate that initial feeling. Some Adderall users may start out at 60mg per day, but over time, their body no longer believes 60 mg is enough. Soon, they’ll increase their dosage to 100mg, then eventually 200mg, and possibly even more.

While the LD50—or the dosage where 50% of the overdose population dies—is 1.6 grams, there’s no set amphetamine overdose amount. Going back to the Adderall example, 30mg can be dangerous for some people, but high-tolerant users often take up five grams a day—which is 100 times the average recommended dose—without experiencing any difficulties.

Amphetamine Overdose Warning Signs

Knowing the amphetamine overdose amount isn’t as important as knowing overdose warning signs. Be on the lookout for any of these symptoms:

  • Confusion
  • Abnormal heartbeat
  • Rapid pulse
  • Uncontrollable anxiety
  • Excessive shakiness
  • Psychosis

If you or a loved one exhibit any of these symptoms, don’t wait for them to just go away. Any of these symptoms could be an indication of an overdose.

How to Treat Amphetamine Abuse or Addiction

If you or a loved one were lucky enough to survive an amphetamine overdose, or if using amphetamines has taken priority over everyday responsibilities, it might be time to seek professional treatment.

Amphetamine addiction is generally more psychological than physical. Although an amphetamine detox cleanses the body, a comprehensive rehabilitation program can help to change negative behaviors and turn lives around. The best treatment facilities offer multiple levels of care and evidence-based behavioral therapies. Some even offer alternative or experiential therapies to enhance the addiction recovery process.

For help combating amphetamine abuse or addiction, reach out to us today. We have access to a wealth of resources that can help you turn your life around.