Methamphetamine vs. Amphetamine Key Differences, Effects, and Risks of Speed Drugs

Methamphetamine vs amphetamine involves two related stimulant drugs that fall under the broader category of “speed drugs.” Amphetamine and Methamphetamine are potent stimulants that affect the central nervous system, increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Methamphetamine is stronger than amphetamine, causing more intense effects and carrying higher risks of addiction and long-term health damage. Crystal meth, ice, and Desoxyn are common methamphetamine drugs names, while amphetamine-based drugs are marketed under names like Adderall, Dexedrine, and Vyvanse. The amphetamine vs methamphetamine comparison is crucial for understanding the differences in their medical uses, abuse potential, and harmful effects. The intensity and risks associated with methamphetamine make it far more dangerous as a substance of abuse, leading to severe psychological and physical harm, while methamphetamine vs amphetamine shares similarities in their mechanisms.
A speed drug is a class of stimulant substances that temporarily increases alertness, energy, and focus. The drugs work by stimulating the central nervous system, increasing the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Speed drugs are prescribed for conditions like Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, where increased attention and wakefulness are needed.

What are the Key Differences between Methamphetamine and Amphetamine?

The key difference between Methamphetamine and Amphetamine lies in their chemical structure, potency, and effects. Methamphetamine has an additional methyl group, making it stronger, more addictive, and faster-acting than amphetamine. Methamphetamine is more abused, and its effects are more intense and longer-lasting. Amphetamine is prescribed for medical purposes in controlled doses to treat conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy. Substances share a similar structure, but Methamphetamine is far more potent.

Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive central nervous system stimulant, which answers the question “what is methamphetamine?”. It is chemically similar to amphetamine but has a more potent effect on the brain and body. Methamphetamine causes an intense rush of euphoria, increasing its potential for abuse and addiction. Methamphetamine is synthesized in illegal laboratories using chemicals such as pseudoephedrine or ephedrine, found in cold medications, combined with other hazardous substances. The production process is dangerous, involving volatile chemicals and methods.

Amphetamine is a stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system, increasing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. It has medical uses for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Amphetamine is synthesized using chemicals like phenylacetone or other precursor substances. It is legally produced for medical use in the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy, but it is illegally manufactured for recreational use.

The key differences between Methamphetamine and Amphetamine are listed below.

• Chemical Structure: Methamphetamine has an additional methyl group compared to amphetamine, which increases its potency and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier more quickly. Methamphetamine creates a stronger “high” to the user, while amphetamine lacks the extra methyl group, making it less potent and slower to act than methamphetamine.
• Potency: Methamphetamine is far more potent than amphetamine, leading to stronger effects on the brain and body. Amphetamine has milder stimulant effects compared to methamphetamine.
• Medical Use: Methamphetamine is rarely prescribed and is primarily used for the treatment of ADHD and obesity under controlled, particular medical circumstances, in much lower doses. Amphetamine is used medically for ADHD and narcolepsy, in the form of medications like Adderall, which answers the question “what is amphetamine?”.
• Street Names: Methamphetamine is known as “meth,” “crystal,” “ice,” “crystal meth,” and “speed.” Amphetamine street names include “speed,” “uppers,” and “bennies.”
• Abuse Potential: Methamphetamine has a much higher abuse potential due to its extreme potency and addictive properties. Amphetamine carries a risk of abuse, but it is considered less addictive than methamphetamine.
• Addiction Risk: Methamphetamine poses a higher risk of addiction due to its intense effects and long-lasting high. Amphetamine carries a lower but significant risk of addiction when abused.
• Legal Status: Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in most countries due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. Amphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance, but is legally prescribed in certain forms for medical conditions like ADHD.
• Form in Illicit Use: Methamphetamine is found in the form of a white, odorless, crystalline powder, or crystal form (crystal meth). Amphetamine is found in tablet form or as a powder when abused.

What are the Main Advantages of Methamphetamine over Amphetamine?

The main advantages of Methamphetamine over Amphetamine are listed below.

• Higher Potency at Lower Doses: Methamphetamine is more potent than amphetamine, meaning smaller doses produce stronger effects. The increased potency produces a more intense stimulant effect in euphoria and alertness.
• Greater Dopamine Release: Methamphetamine causes a more substantial release of dopamine in the brain compared to amphetamine. It leads to more pronounced feelings of euphoria and increased stimulation, contributing to the drug’s higher abuse potential.
• Sometimes Used in Treatment-Resistant ADHD (Desoxyn): Methamphetamine is prescribed to patients with treatment-resistant ADHD in its pharmaceutical form (Desoxyn). It is considered an alternative for patients who do not respond to other medications like amphetamine-based drugs.
• Short-Term Appetite Suppression is Better: Methamphetamine has a stronger effect on appetite suppression compared to amphetamine. It makes it more effective in providing short-term weight loss effects, although the risks of misuse of methamphetamine are higher.
• Increased energy, heightened alertness, and intense feelings of euphoria are the general effects of methamphetamine. It leads to a significant reduction in appetite, hyperactivity, and increased talkativeness. However, long-term use results in negative side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, aggression, and severe health issues, including cardiovascular problems and brain damage.

1. Higher potency at lower doses

Higher potency at lower doses refers to a drug’s ability to produce stronger effects with a smaller amount of the substance. A smaller dose of the drug induces a more intense stimulant effect compared to amphetamine, which requires higher doses to achieve similar levels of potency. The higher potency of methamphetamine at lower doses means that users experience stronger effects with less of the substance, which increases its efficiency in delivering the desired euphoria, focus, and stimulation. The potency contributes to its higher abuse potential, as the effects are felt more quickly and intensely, leading to a stronger psychological reinforcement. A much smaller amount of methamphetamine produces the same, or even stronger effects, while a person needs a higher dose of amphetamine to feel euphoric or energized. However, it means that methamphetamine causes stronger side effects and carries a higher risk of addiction.

2. Greater dopamine release

Greater dopamine release refers to the increased production and release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a key role in feelings of pleasure, reward, and motivation. Dopamine release is triggered by pleasurable activities, such as eating or socializing, and drugs like methamphetamine amplify the release, leading to intense feelings of euphoria. Methamphetamine stimulates a far greater release of dopamine compared to amphetamine. The amplified dopamine surge results in much stronger feelings of euphoria and a heightened sense of reward, which reinforce the desire to repeat the drug use, leading to addiction. The increased dopamine levels contribute to methamphetamine’s more potent and longer-lasting effects, making it more appealing and addictive than amphetamine. Methamphetamine elevates dopamine by over 1000%, leading to a far more intense and pleasurable high, while amphetamine increases dopamine release by about 300%. For example, users of methamphetamine report an overwhelming rush of euphoria shortly after use, a sensation that lasts much longer than the effects of amphetamine.

3. Sometimes used in treatment-resistant ADHD (Desoxyn).

Sometimes Used in Treatment-Resistant ADHD (Desoxyn) refers to the use of methamphetamine, in its pharmaceutical form known as Desoxyn, as a treatment for patients with ADHD who do not respond to other medications. Desoxyn is a prescription medication that contains methamphetamine and is prescribed in much lower doses than drugs abused, making it a legal and controlled treatment option for specific medical conditions. Methamphetamine is advantageous for users with treatment-resistant ADHD because it offers more effective symptom management when other stimulant medications, such as amphetamine-based drugs, do not provide sufficient relief. Desoxyn has a stronger effect on the brain’s dopamine system, and its higher potency at lower doses leads to improved focus and attention in users who have not responded well to other treatments. The specific action of methamphetamine in increasing dopamine release is more beneficial for the patients, though it is reserved for patients who have not had success with other ADHD medications.

4. Short-term appetite suppression is better

Short-term appetite suppression is better refers to the ability of a substance to reduce feelings of hunger or decrease the desire to eat for a limited period. Methamphetamine has a stronger effect on the central nervous system, leading to more pronounced appetite-suppressing effects in the short term. Methamphetamine’s greater potency results in more significant appetite suppression than amphetamine, making it more effective for users seeking to curb their appetite temporarily. The stronger release of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in methamphetamine leads to a more intense reduction in hunger, contributing to its appeal in weight-loss or “dieting” contexts. However, it is not a medically recommended use. Methamphetamine’s ability to suppress appetite more effectively in the short term provides an advantage over amphetamine, which produces milder effects in comparison.

What are the Main Advantages of Amphetamine over Methamphetamine?

The main advantages of Amphetamine over Methamphetamine are listed below.

• Lower Abuse and Addiction Risk: Amphetamine has a lower potential for abuse and addiction than methamphetamine. Its effects are less intense and shorter-lasting, reducing the likelihood of compulsive use, while amphetamine is addictive.
• Slightly Stimulating: Amphetamine provides a more moderate stimulating effect compared to methamphetamine. It is effective for increasing alertness and focus without the intense euphoria or energy that methamphetamine causes.
• Safer for Long-Term Medicine: Amphetamine is safer for long-term use, in treating conditions like ADHD in controlled doses. It carries a lower risk of long-term negative health consequences compared to methamphetamine, which is associated with severe addiction and neurotoxicity.
• More Commonly Prescribed (Adderall, Dexedrine): Amphetamine is more commonly prescribed for medical conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy. Adderall and Dexedrine, which contain amphetamine, are used and considered effective in managing symptoms of the disorders.
• Less Severe Psychological Side Effects: Amphetamine produces fewer severe psychological side effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and aggression, compared to methamphetamine, which leads to extreme psychological instability and long-term mental health issues.
• Lower Brain Neurotoxicity: Amphetamine has less neurotoxic effect on the brain than methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is much more damaging, leading to long-term cognitive and memory issues. However, amphetamine and methamphetamine have harmful effects on the brain when abused.
• Clinically Better Controlled: Amphetamine is prescribed in controlled doses, making its effects easier to manage and monitor by healthcare providers. It allows for better oversight in treating conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy, while methamphetamine’s use is highly restricted due to its high potential for abuse.

Increased alertness, improved focus, reduced fatigue, and enhanced concentration are the general effects of amphetamine. It is commonly used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, where it helps patients manage symptoms by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain. However, side effects include insomnia, dry mouth, increased heart rate, and, in some cases, anxiety or irritability. Amphetamines lead to addiction, cardiovascular problems, and other long-term health issues when abused.

1. Lower abuse and addiction risk

Lower abuse and addiction risk refers to a substance being used harmfully and causing dependence or addiction. A substance with lower abuse and addiction risk is less likely to be

2. Slightly stimulating

Slightly stimulating refers to a moderate increase in alertness, energy, and focus caused by a substance. A slightly stimulating effect produces mild cognitive and physical performance improvement without leading to extreme euphoria or overstimulation, making the substance easier to manage and less likely to cause negative side effects. The slightly stimulating effect of amphetamine is advantageous because it offers therapeutic benefits without the intense highs or energy surges associated with methamphetamine. It leads to negative effects such as anxiety, restlessness, and an increased risk of addiction, while methamphetamine is highly potent and produces strong, long-lasting stimulation. Amphetamine provides a gentler and more controlled stimulation, which is beneficial for conditions like ADHD, where focus and concentration need to be improved without overwhelming the user. It makes amphetamine safer for long-term use and easier to manage in clinical settings. For example, Adderall is used to treat ADHD by improving focus and concentration without causing the extreme overstimulation or euphoria seen with methamphetamine, which contains amphetamine.

3. Safer for long-term medicine

Safer for long-term medicine refers to the ability of a substance to be used over an extended period with a low risk of negative health consequences, including addiction, tolerance, and physical or mental health problems. A substance that is safe for long-term use does not cause significant harm to the body or brain when taken as prescribed and under medical supervision. Amphetamine is considered safer for long-term medical use because it produces milder effects on the body and brain compared to methamphetamine. Amphetamine is used in controlled doses with minimal side effects, while methamphetamine is highly potent and carries a high risk of addiction, neurotoxicity, and long-term physical and psychological harm. Amphetamine-based medications like Adderall are prescribed for chronic conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy, and when taken as directed, they are well-tolerated and pose fewer risks than methamphetamine. Methamphetamine’s stronger stimulating effects make it unsuitable for long-term use due to the significant risks of dependence, cardiovascular damage, and mental health issues. For example, Adderall is prescribed for the long-term treatment of ADHD in children and adults, with regular monitoring and proper dosage adjustments to minimize risks.

4. More commonly prescribed (Adderall, Dexedrine)

More commonly prescribed (Adderall, Dexedrine) refers to the widespread use and approval of certain medications that contain amphetamine, such as Adderall and Dexedrine, in the medical field for treating conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy. Healthcare professionals regularly prescribe the medicines due to their effectiveness, safety profile, and lower risk of severe side effects compared to alternatives like methamphetamine. Amphetamine is more commonly prescribed than methamphetamine because it has a proven track record of being effective for managing conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy, with a more controlled and safer therapeutic profile. Adderall and Dexedrine are well-regulated, have predictable effects, and are accepted in clinical practice. The medications are prescribed in controlled doses, and their side effects are manageable when monitored. Methamphetamine is rarely prescribed due to its higher potential for abuse, addiction, and severe health risks. The more common prescription of amphetamine medications like Adderall and Dexedrine is an advantage in terms of accessibility, public trust, and overall safety in long-term use.

5. Less severe psychological side effects

Less severe psychological side effects refer to the reduced occurrence and intensity of negative mental health effects such as anxiety, paranoia, aggression, and mood swings that result from taking a substance. The psychological side effects are less likely to cause extreme mental or emotional distress during or after use, making it safer and more tolerable for users when a drug has less severe psychological side effects. Amphetamine causes fewer severe psychological side effects compared to methamphetamine because of its lower potency and milder action on the brain. Methamphetamine causes a much more intense and prolonged release, leading to stronger psychological effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and aggression, while the drugs stimulate the release of dopamine. The extreme psychological effects lead to significant mental health issues, including violent behavior and hallucinations, with long-term or high-dose use. Amphetamine produces more moderate and shorter-lasting effects, making it less likely to cause severe psychological side effects. It makes amphetamine safer for long-term use, in medical treatments for ADHD, where maintaining mental stability is essential.

6. Lower brain neurotoxicity

Lower brain neurotoxicity refers to the reduced potential of a substance to cause damage to the brain cells and neural structures. Neurotoxicity leads to long-term cognitive impairments, memory loss, and other neurological issues. A substance with lower brain neurotoxicity causes less harm to the brain’s neurons, allowing for better cognitive function and fewer long-term negative effects. Amphetamine has a lower risk of brain neurotoxicity compared to methamphetamine because it produces a less intense and shorter-lasting effect on the brain’s dopamine system. Methamphetamine leads to excessive dopamine release and prolonged activation of dopamine receptors, which results in oxidative stress and damage to neurons. The damage contributes to long-term cognitive decline, memory issues, and even permanent brain damage. Amphetamine causes a more controlled release of dopamine, leading to fewer instances of neurotoxicity. It makes amphetamine safer for long-term use, in clinical treatments for ADHD, while methamphetamine is associated with more severe and irreversible brain damage over time. Studies have shown that chronic use of methamphetamine causes brain shrinkage, memory loss, and difficulties with motor coordination, effects that are not seen with long-term amphetamine use when taken as prescribed.

7. Clinically better controlled

Clinically better controlled refers to a more easily regulated, monitored, and managed substance within a medical setting. Factors like dosing precision, tracking effects, and minimizing side effects or potential risks through careful oversight by healthcare providers are clinically better controlled. Amphetamine is clinically better controlled than methamphetamine because it is prescribed in regulated, standardized doses for medical conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy. Amphetamine medications like Adderall and Dexedrine are prescribed under strict medical supervision, allowing for better monitoring of side effects and effectiveness. The strict medical supervision makes it easier to adjust dosages as needed to ensure safety and therapeutic efficacy. Methamphetamine is rarely used in clinical settings due to its high potential for abuse, addiction, and severe side effects. The potential for methamphetamine to cause harmful psychological and physical reactions in users makes it difficult to manage in a clinical environment, even when prescribed in small doses (as seen with Desoxyn).

What are the Factors that Influence the Choice between Methamphetamine and Amphetamine?

The factors that influence the choice between Methamphetamine and Amphetamine are listed below.

• Abuse Potential: Refers to the likelihood of a substance being misused for non-medical purposes, leading to addiction or harmful consequences. Methamphetamine has a higher abuse potential compared to amphetamine due to its stronger and more prolonged stimulating effects, making it less suitable for long-term or routine medical use.
• Severity of the Condition: The severity of the condition refers to how serious or resistant a medical condition is to other treatments. Methamphetamine is considered in cases of treatment-resistant ADHD or in severe cases where other medications have not been effective, while amphetamine is used for less severe or more managed conditions like ADHD.
• Side Effect Profile: The side effect profile refers to the range and intensity of adverse effects a drug causes during or after use. Amphetamine has a more manageable side effect profile, including mild symptoms like insomnia or irritability, whereas methamphetamine causes severe psychological and physical side effects, including anxiety, paranoia, and long-term brain damage.
• Neurotoxicity Risk: Refers to the potential for a substance to cause damage to the brain or nervous system. Methamphetamine poses a higher neurotoxicity risk, leading to cognitive decline and memory loss with prolonged use. Amphetamine has a much lower neurotoxic risk, making it safer for long-term use.
• Regulation and Prescription Control: The regulation control refers to how strictly a substance is controlled by healthcare authorities, including its availability and the conditions under which it is prescribed. Amphetamine is commonly prescribed and regulated for use in conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy, with regular monitoring and safe dosage, while methamphetamine is less prescribed due to its high risk of misuse and potential for abuse.

Are Amphetamines Addictive?

Yes, amphetamines are addictive. Amphetamines have the potential to cause addiction when misused. Amphetamines stimulate the central nervous system by increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, which leads to intense feelings of euphoria and increased energy. The effects reinforce continued use, leading to psychological dependence and addiction.  Adderall or Dexedrine is used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. The risk of addiction is low when taken as directed and under medical supervision. However, the medications lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction if they are abused.

The addictive potential of amphetamines is a significant concern when they are used recreationally or inappropriately. Long-term abuse leads to severe health issues, including cardiovascular problems, mental health disorders, and cognitive decline. Amphetamines must be used responsibly and under proper medical guidance to minimize the risk of addiction.

What are the Examples of Amphetamine?

The examples of Amphetamine are listed below.

• Adderall: A combination of amphetamine salts (dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine), as one of the amphetamine examples. Adderall works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving attention, focus, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD. It helps with narcolepsy by promoting wakefulness.
• Vyvanse: A prodrug that is inactive until metabolized in the body. Vyvanse releases dextroamphetamine, which increases dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, helping to improve focus, attention, and impulse control. It is prescribed for ADHD and binge eating disorder.
• Dexedrine: Dexedrine contains dextroamphetamine, a more potent form of amphetamine. It works by increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, enhancing attention and focus, and is used for ADHD and narcolepsy. It has a faster onset of action compared to some other amphetamines.
• Benzedrine: Benzedrine was one of the first amphetamine medications, used to treat conditions like narcolepsy and asthma. It works by stimulating the central nervous system, increasing norepinephrine and dopamine levels, which improves alertness and decreases fatigue. However, it has largely been replaced by more modern amphetamines.
• Zenzedi: An amphetamine that works by stimulating the release of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, containing dextroamphetamine, and Dexedrine. It helps with focus and attention and reduces hyperactivity in patients with ADHD. It is prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy.
• Evekeo: Evekeo contains amphetamine sulfate, which increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, improving attention, focus, and alertness. It is used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and obesity, though it is prescribed for ADHD.
• Procentra: Contains dextroamphetamine, which helps in the treatment of ADHD by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Procentra works to improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and control hyperactivity, making it effective for children with ADHD, in a liquid formulation.

Are Amphetamine and Methamphetamine used for the same conditions?

No, amphetamine and methamphetamine are not used for the same conditions. Methamphetamine and Amphetamine are prescribed for different purposes and have distinct medical uses, though the drugs are stimulants and affect the central nervous system by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels. Amphetamine is commonly used for conditions like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and narcolepsy due to its relatively safer profile and manageable side effects. Adderall, Dexedrine, and Vyvanse are examples of amphetamines used for the conditions.

Methamphetamine is used in minimal circumstances, such as in the treatment of severe ADHD that does not respond to other medications, but it is extremely rare. Methamphetamine or Desoxyn is sometimes used in cases of treatment-resistant ADHD. However, methamphetamine is rarely prescribed due to its higher potential for abuse, addiction, and severe side effects, including long-term neurotoxicity and psychological damage. Amphetamine is commonly prescribed due to its better safety profile, and methamphetamine is only considered in severe cases and under strict medical supervision, while amphetamine and methamphetamine treat similar conditions.

What are Examples of Methamphetamine?

The examples of Methamphetamine are listed below.

• Ice: Refers to the crystalline form of methamphetamine that is smoked, leading to a rapid and intense high. It is addictive due to its potent and long-lasting effects on the brain.
• Crystal Meth: Crystal meth is another form of methamphetamine, seen as clear, bluish crystals. It is smoked, snorted, or injected, and its effects include intense euphoria, heightened energy, and alertness. It has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
• Desoxyn: Desoxyn is the pharmaceutical form of methamphetamine, prescribed in minimal cases for severe ADHD or obesity that does not respond to other treatments. It is prescribed in controlled doses under medical supervision, unlike illicit methamphetamine.
• Tina: A street name for methamphetamine, in the context of illicit use. Tina is associated with the illegal drug trade and carries the same risks as other forms of methamphetamine, including addiction and severe psychological side effects.
• Shabu: The name used for methamphetamine in parts of Southeast Asia, in the Philippines. It is found in its crystal form and is smoked or injected. Shabu has high abuse potential and significant health risks, like other forms of methamphetamine.

Is Methamphetamine stronger than Amphetamine?

Yes, methamphetamine is stronger than amphetamine. Methamphetamine is chemically similar to amphetamine, but it has a much stronger effect on the brain and body. The primary reason methamphetamine is more potent is due to an additional methyl group in its chemical structure, which allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier more quickly and in larger amounts. It leads to a more intense release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, causing stronger euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness compared to amphetamine. 

Methamphetamine produces much more intense effects, which makes it highly addictive and causes severe psychological and physical harm with prolonged use. Methamphetamine’s stronger effects mean it carries a higher risk of abuse, addiction, and long-term health issues such as brain damage, cardiovascular problems, and mental health disorders. Methamphetamine and amphetamine are stimulants used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy.