At first glance, it’s not difficult to see why people confuse amphetamine and methamphetamine. They both produce a stimulant chemical high that can rapidly lead to dependence. Both are also highly addictive. They even have a similar chemical makeup, which helps to create even more confusion.

Methamphetamines are considered more addictive than speed because meth is more able to cross the brain-blood barrier. The effects of meth will be felt much faster, triggering the brain’s reward system. 

However, it’s not difficult to see why people confuse speed, aka amphetamine, and methamphetamine. Both produce a stimulant chemical high that can rapidly lead to dependence. Both are also highly addictive. 

They even have a similar chemical makeup, which helps to create even more confusion. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, both drugs have the same short-term effects: 

A quick onset of intense euphoria A burst of energy Appetite suppression 

These three effects largely contribute to their popularity as recreational drugs. But what are the differences between the two drugs, and would taking one be more harmful than the other?

Difference Between Amphetamine and Methamphetamine

Since both drugs are used recreationally, you often hear their “street names” used when referring to them. Amphetamines are known as “speed,” while meth goes by a range of names, with “ice” or “crystal meth” being the most widely known. The latter’s wide recognition may be attributed to the popular series Breaking Bad.

What Are Methamphetamines?

Since methamphetamine (meth) is very similar to amphetamines (speed) in terms of their chemical makeup, they also have similar effects. 

There is one key difference, however, and this difference goes a long way toward explaining why meth tends to be much more addictive than ‘regular’ speed.

In short, methamphetamine crosses the blood-brain barrier more rapidly and in greater amounts than amphetamines. The result of this is an almost immediate and incredibly intense euphoric high.

Amphetamines Explained

Amphetamines are drugs that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS). After taking amphetamines, the user will experience a greater ability to focus on tasks and an increased sense of productiveness.

Doctors prescribe amphetamines to people with ADHD to help with focus and concentration, and you may be familiar with one of the most well-known drug brands: Adderall.

When prescribed, amphetamines come in either pill or tablet form. For street use, however, “speed” looks like a loose powder that can be snorted, smoked, or injected.

Methamphetamine Explained

Since methamphetamine (meth) is very similar to amphetamines (speed) in terms of their chemical make-up, they also have similar effects. There is one key difference, however, and this difference goes a long way toward explaining why meth tends to be much more addictive than ‘regular’ speed.

In short, methamphetamine crosses the blood-brain barrier more rapidly and in greater amounts than amphetamines. The result of this is an almost immediate and incredibly intense euphoric high.

Why Meth is Highly Addictive

While both substances are classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the DEA, doctors are wary of prescribing meth because of the extreme reaction triggered by the drug. Since meth is more fast-acting, people are more prone to getting addicted to the effects and going on binges to “chase” the high, which can lead to addiction much faster.

Another reason people are more prone to getting addicted to meth is the method of consumption. Smoking or injecting meth results in the drug getting into the bloodstream much quicker compared to ingesting a pill or snorting powder.

Are There Harmful Long-Term Effects?

Yes, there are harmful long-term effects of speed and meth if taken for recreational use rather than under a strict and controlled prescription. These effects include:

Headaches Blurry vision Constipation Dizziness Psychosis Weakened immune system Heart damage Permanent brain damage

Is Speed as Addictive as Meth?

In a nutshell: no, speed is not as addictive as meth because of the speed at which meth crosses the blood-brain barrier and becomes active in the body’s metabolism. However, this does not mean that speed (amphetamine) is safe to take without a doctor’s prescription. As with any prescribed drug, the only way to safely take amphetamines is to follow the specified amount and schedule and there is still a risk of addiction.

Make no mistake, all forms of amphetamines (speed) are addictive and can be especially dangerous for anyone who has struggled with addiction to any other substance before. Although experimentation with speed is widespread, recreational use nearly always leads to adverse outcomes.

If you have a problem with meth addiction, please contact Midwood for information about our recovery programs.

Sources: 

MedlinePlus – Substance use – amphetamines

MedlinePlus – Methamphetamine

---