Amphetamine vs Methamphetamine, Main Differences, Stimulants Specifics, Deadly Potential & Treatment Options

M-e-t-h. These four letters aren’t all that distinguish amphetamines and methamphetamines from one another. Although both substances are classified as stimulants or “uppers” and Schedule II drugs, there are meaningful differences in how powerful these drugs are, how addictive they can be, and the long-term consequences of abuse. What are the differences between amphetamines vs methamphetamines? Which one is more dangerous? Here’s everything you need to know about what they are and how these two types of drugs work.

A Brief Look at Amphetamines vs Methamphetamines

First off, let’s establish that both amphetamine and methamphetamine are indeed two distinct types of drugs. You’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise, after all, ‘amphetamine’ is in the name of both substances. Technically, meth is a type of amphetamine, but is classified separately and has been since 2015. The main similarities between the two are 1) their drug classification and 2) their shared potential to be dangerous. 

Although both amphetamines and methamphetamines are stimulants, meth:

• Is very rarely used for medical purposes (although it does have some)
• Is more often illegally manufactured, distributed, and consumed
• Is far more potent than amphetamines
• Has effects that are more harmful and longer-lasting than amphetamines

Stimulants are one of seven types of the seven drug categories. There are both licit and illicit types of stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, and ADHD medication Adderall. As their name implies, these drugs stimulate the body by increasing the rate at which central nervous system signals are sent and received. This translates to increased respiratory and cardiovascular function and unnaturally high levels of dopamine being released into the body which are responsible for the tell-tale markers of a stimulant high:

• Heightened energy levels
• Euphoria
• Increased sociability/self-esteem
• Improved attention span
• Increased sexual desire/performance
• Appetite suppression 

While these effects might seem positive, they come at a significant cost. Stimulant use puts immense strain on the body. Even first-time use of this drug can result in a number of adverse effects that cause short and long-term health issues—as well as death. Chronic stimulant abuse will often carry psychological side effects as well such as the development of serious mental illness.

Amphetamines are primarily composed of prescription stimulants and are the weakest types of stimulants.  These pharmaceutical medications are prescribed to treat conditions like ADHD, narcolepsy, and weight loss. As such, amphetamines are typically found in a tablet or capsule form for oral consumption (though individuals abusing these medications may snort, smoke, or inject them). Common types of amphetamines and their risk profile can include:

• Adderall addiction
• Dexedrine addiction
• Vyvanse addiction

While all (legal) amphetamines are prescriptions, not all prescription stimulants are amphetamines.

Amphetamine Abuse

Amphetamines abuse is most common among teenagers and young adults who use them as “study drugs” to enhance focus, stay awake for longer, and boost cognitive functioning. However, the nature of how amphetamines work also means that those who take this substance without a medical need may experience a small high from the excess dopamine that is released. 

Methamphetamine is a kind of amphetamine. The two have similar molecular structures, similar mechanisms of how they work, and therefore have similar effects such as euphoria and increased energy. Meth both increases the levels of dopamine and blocks its reuptake, which leads to extremely high concentrations of dopamine in the brain. However, meth is much more powerful than prescription stimulants and other amphetamines in general. This in addition to the intention with which meth is used is the greatest difference between the two substances. 

The Different Forms of Methamphetamine

Meth goes by many names and can be used in a number of methods: smoked snorted, swallowed, or injected. Both what it’s called and the ways meth is used are largely determined by its physical form.

The most common form of meth is a fine white or off-white powder commonly referred to as “speed”). It is often snorted and the least potent version of the drug (~10%). The base is an oily yellowish or brownish paste-like substance whose version of meth has a slightly higher purity and potency (~20%), is often injected or swallowed. Crystal meth (also known as “ice”)is a different form of meth that looks like a crystal-like rock. It is a much purer, and therefore stronger, form of meth (~80%) that is far more addictive and dangerous. It is most often smoked or injected.