Dependence on Amphetamines and Other Stimulant Drugs

Stimulant drugs of the amphetamine type have been used in medical practice for the past 35 years. During this period identifiable patterns of abuse and misuse have been established, and it has been demonstrated that, for many persons, these substances have dependence-producing*characteristics which can bring about serious clinical and personal problems. However, unlike that with narcotics or barbiturates, over-medication with stimulants does not lead to physical dependence. Abuse of these substances arises from and is perpetuated solely by psychic needs to overcome depression or fatigue or to attain the euphoric and excitatory effects associated with the drugs. The routes to dependence on stimulant drugs are varied. Some start in the physician's office where a prescription for amphetamine is given as treatment for depression or as an adjunct to weight reduction. Most cases, however, stem from illicit channels where drugs are sold indiscriminately to a variety of customers, such as