Treatment for amphetamine: methods, medications, therapy recommendations

Treatment for amphetamines, including drugs such as methamphetamine and Adderall, can be complex and requires a comprehensive approach. The therapy utilises the help of a variety of professionals, which includes medication, psychological support and social rehabilitation. Comprehensive treatment aims to fully restore the person’s body and psyche and return them to a normal life in which there will be no place for amphetamine. 

Psychological support in treatment for amphetamine dependence

Behavioural therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) help the patient develop strategies to manage stress, prevent the likelihood of relapse to amphetamines and promote healthy life skills.

Motivational therapy helps to motivate the patient to change their behaviour and decide to stop using amphetamines. Psychological therapy in amphetamine addiction treatment is time-consuming. It is much more difficult and time-consuming than ridding the body of physiological addiction. And the task of psychologists, psychotherapists and psychiatrists is to help the patient find motivation to get rid of the addiction and start living again. 

Drug treatment for amphetamine dependence

Medication is the mainstay of therapy for amphetamine dependence. Some medications may be prescribed by an addiction therapist to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. If the patient has co-occurring psychiatric disorders such as depression or anxiety, appropriate antidepressants or medications to manage symptoms may be prescribed.

The following groups of drugs are used to treat amphetamine addiction:

• Antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) may be prescribed to reduce the symptoms of depression and apathy that can occur when withdrawing from amphetamines.
• Anxiolytics such as benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam) can be used to manage anxiety and restlessness.
• Antipsychotics – If a patient develops psychosis or hallucinations due to long-term amphetamine use, a doctor may prescribe antipsychotic medications.
• Sleep medications – Insomnia is often one of the symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal. A drug therapist may prescribe medication to improve sleep in such cases.
• Methadone – can be used as substitution therapy to reduce the desire for amphetamines.
• Modafinil – used to combat drowsiness and apathy after stopping amphetamines.

It is important to realise that drug treatment for amphetamines should only be used under medical supervision and in combination with psychological and psychotherapeutic support. Treatment should be individualised and the choice of specific medications depends on the needs and characteristics of the patient. Self-administration of medication can be dangerous and ineffective.

Amphetamine Addiction Treatment Price (Cost)

Recovery and rehabilitation

Rehabilitation programmes help patients to acquire the skills necessary for successful reintegration into society and teach relapse prevention strategies. Rehabilitation includes both individual work with the patient and group therapy, such as participation in self-help groups.

Patients undergoing treatment need regular medical supervision to assess their physical and mental condition and to adjust the treatment plan if necessary. This is why it is important, even after the main treatment has been completed, to remain in an inpatient setting where specialist help and support is available at all times. 

Treatment for amphetamine addiction should be individualised and tailored to the needs of each patient. Collaboration with experienced professionals at the GarMed Clinic, such as addiction specialists and psychologists, can significantly increase the chances of recovery.

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