The effects of amphetamines and methamphetamine are similar to cocaine, but their
onset is slower and their duration is longer. In contrast to cocaine, which is quickly removed from the brain and is almost
completely metabolized, methamphetamine remains in the central nervous system longer, and a larger percentage of the drug
remains unchanged in the body, producing prolonged stimulant effects.
Chronic abuse produces a psychosis that resembles schizophrenia and is characterized
by paranoia, picking at the skin, preoccupation with one's own thoughts, and auditory and visual hallucinations. Violent and
erratic behavior is frequently seen among chronic abusers of amphetamines and methamphetamine.
Affect of Ice on the Body
Physical effects of amphetamine use include increased blood pressure and pulse
rates, insomnia, loss of appetite, and physical exhaustion.
Drugs Causing Similar Effects
Methylphenidate and dexmethylphendiate, phentermine, benzphetamine, phendimetrazine,
cocaine, crack, methamphetamine, khat
Ice Overdose Effects
Overdose effects include agitation, increased body temperature, hallucinations,
convulsions, and possible death.
Ice's Legal Status in the United States
Amphetamines are schedule II stimulants, which means that they have a high potential
for abuse and limited medical uses. Pharmaceutical products are available only through a prescription that cannot be refilled.
Common places of origin
Amphetamine was first marketed in the 1930s as Benzedrine® in an over-the-counter
inhaler to treat nasal congestion. By 1937 amphetamine was available by prescription in tablet form and was used in the treatment
of the sleeping disorder, narcolepsy, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Over the years, the use and abuse of clandestinely produced amphetamines have
spread. Today, clandestine laboratory production of amphetamines has mushroomed.
