Amphetamines belong to the drug group of stimulants and benzodiazepines in the central nervous system depressant group.
The use of amphetamines leads to an increase of dopamine and of norepinephrine in the brain, causing euphoric feelings.
Amphetamines tend to be prescribed for treatment of lack of attention and hyperactivity, narcolepsy and depression. But they are often misused because they are known to result in weight loss and also give people a sense of energy.
Some of the immediate uses of amphetamines include:
More energy- Reduced appetite
- Excessive sweating
- Increased sexual drive
- Tachycardia and rapid breathing
- Dry mouth
Two to four days after amphetamine use, an individual may experience:
- Anxious sleep
- Headach
- Visual disturbance
- Dizziness
- Confusion and irritability
- Changes in mood and depression
Benzodiazepines are often referred to as tranquilizers, they have soothing, anti-stress and muscle relaxant properties.
They give users a sedative effect, the opposite of the effect they feel by taking amphetamines.
Benzodiazepines "work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter γ-amino-butyric acid (GABA), which is responsible for reducing the activity of stress-causing neurons."
Some of the symptoms of benzodiazepine use include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, headaches, etc.
Very often individuals are using simultaneously amphetamines and benzodiazepines. Through the use of amphetamines they achieve stimulation and through the use of benzodiazepines try to calm down or to sleep.
However, mixing amphetamines and benzodiazepines can be a very risky practice.
By using stimulants a person may not feel the effects of the sedative and believes he/she needs to get more. This can lead to overdose
Taking both types of drugs at the same time is also hard for the heart, as stimulants accelerate heart rate while suppressors work to slow it down. This sends mixed messages to the heart and may result in dysrhythmias or heart failure.
If you are in the circle of amphetamines and benzodiazepines, seek professional medical help, as attempting to break the cycle yourself can be dangerous because of possible complications.