In our world today, the amphetamine shortage has taken center stage in discussions about drug addiction and recovery. It has brought to light the increasing number of individuals that are struggling with the pervasive problem of amphetamine use and abuse. In turn, this shortage has created a need for more information on the process of amphetamine detox, as well as potential solutions. It is important for health care professionals to understand the best ways to assist people that are looking to undergo detox and provide them with helpful treatment options to do so.
This blog post will explore what effects this worldwide shortage has had on those seeking to overcome their amphetamine addiction. We will also discover new ways to manage cravings during withdrawal periods and discuss why some addiction treatment programs may be better than others in certain cases.
What Are Amphetamines and How Are They Used?
Amphetamines are a type of drug, classed as stimulants, that are prescribed for medical purposes. They come in either pill or tablet form, and they are most commonly prescribed by doctors to help treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD and narcolepsy.
When used medically, these drugs work by stimulating the central nervous system to produce heightened alertness and increased energy levels. When they are being abused or misused, they can produce feelings of euphoria as well as increased wakefulness over long periods of time. Amphetamines have been found to have addictive qualities if used for extended periods of time or in large doses, so it is important that their use is monitored and limited only when necessary.
What Started The Worldwide Amphetamine Shortage?
The amphetamine shortage started when issues first arose at Teva, one of the largest drug manufacturers in the world. Teva manufactures both Adderall, as well as generic forms of Ritalin, which are two of the most common prescription drugs made with amphetamines. While there are a number of other drug producers that are having difficulty keeping up with heightened demand, a key contributing factor is that amphetamines are a controlled substance.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, amphetamines are considered to be a Schedule II controlled substance, due to their high potential for abuse. This restriction limits drug companies’ access to raw ingredients needed to produce different types of amphetamines, thus contributing to the shortage. As more information is revealed about this unpredictable supply and demand balance, experts are racing to figure out solutions that work best for everyone involved. One way that individuals can prevent harmful withdrawal symptoms when no longer taking these drugs, is to consider amphetamine detox. A shortage in Adderall specifically was first reported by the Food and Drug Administration in September 2019, so why is it still an ongoing issue?
Why Is The Shortage Still Ongoing?
The worldwide amphetamine shortage that is taking the world by storm has a multitude of causes. In many ways, the shortage is an effect of the increasingly globalized economy that doesn’t necessarily recognize local constraints in production and demand. The United States and many other countries are facing backlogs from generic drug manufacturers who can’t keep up with demand while forcing their suppliers to compete harshly on price.
When looking for answers abroad, international pharmaceutical companies have been stepping away from producing amphetamine-based drugs due to the high cost of materials and complexity of research. This has resulted in fewer large-scale producers wanting to formulate or sell these drugs.
At the same time, those suffering from mental health issues are turning to more potent medications like amphetamines on an increasingly regular basis, especially in recent years. This has caused demand for these drugs to skyrocket as few countries have infrastructure in place to adequately monitor drug use among its residents. Even with these challenges arising daily, it is still possible for governments and organizations around the world to partner together in order to guarantee a steady supply of medicines that meet everyone’s needs.
How is This Leading To Amphetamine Detox?
As amphetamines have become increasingly scarce and in turn, more expensive, those who have become dependent on them for mental stimulation are feeling the effects of the worldwide shortage. Individuals that are now reliant on these drugs have been forced to undergo amphetamine detox, since they have been cut off from their supply of medication.
Due to the abruptness of this shortage, those who are accustomed to a regular dose of amphetamines can experience severe withdrawal symptoms when their body is no longer receiving them. Some other side effects that come with amphetamine detox are headaches, irritability, extreme fatigue, nausea, confusion, depression and even suicidal ideation. This situation must be dealt with delicately and professional medical guidance is essential for people to safely endure the period of abstinence before sustained recovery can begin.
Benefits of Amphetamine Detox Treatment Programs
The majority of individuals that choose to start on a new prescription drug are typically not expecting for the medication to result in them experiencing symptoms of withdrawal or having to undergo detox. Thankfully, there are prescription drug addiction specialists that have the required knowledge and expertise to help those in need of amphetamine detox receive the necessary support. Since this shortage has caused so much upheaval in the lives of many, it’s important to be aware of all the life-changing benefits offered by detox treatment centers.
- Improved self-confidence and increased feelings of worthiness: Amphetamine detox can be an empowering journey. By committing to the process you are taking a step that could have long lasting positive effects on your mental health and wellbeing.
- Offers greater potential for successful long-term recovery: Detox provides a stronger foundation to lower the likelihood of relapse. With professional support and tools, individuals can find lasting sobriety from this powerful substance.
- Invaluable benefits of peer support: Detox programs help individuals connect through sharing stories in group settings or simply listening to one another’s experiences. Individuals undergoing withdrawal can gain crucial emotional strength during their healing process from knowing they are not alone on their path toward sobriety.
- Offers personalized treatment plans: Amphetamine detox programs are tailored to meet individual needs and goals, and ultimately achieve a healthier lifestyle. Experienced practitioners can help design an effective program where each phase of recovery is strategically planned out for optimal effectiveness in eliminating harmful substances from the body.
- Provides an essential starting point for recovery: These detox programs provide a secure and supportive environment where individuals can safely cleanse their bodies of the harmful toxins left behind from amphetamine abuse. Through professional guidance, those suffering from addiction are given the opportunity to properly heal in order to move forward on the path toward lasting sobriety.
Receive Help For Amphetamine Detox at Atlanta Detox Center
If you have been affected by the amphetamine shortage, Atlanta Detox Center has the resources you need to help you manage withdrawal symptoms and achieve a successful recovery. Finding the right program for your individualized needs can make all the difference in your journey to lasting sobriety. Our experts specialize in providing treatments that are tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs.
We employ innovative therapy methods designed to reduce withdrawal symptoms and facilitate long-term recovery. From medication-assisted therapies to structured counseling sessions, our staff is dedicated to helping you find the right care plan so that you can get clean and begin living a healthier life.
Contact us today to get started – our experts are standing by waiting to answer your questions and assist you in any way possible.
