NCJ Number
235984
Editor(s)
Everett H. Ellinwood, M.D.,
Sidney Cohen, M.D.
Date Published
1972
Length
245 pages
Annotation
This report presents papers and discussion transcripts from a workshop held at the Duke University Medical Center on June 5 and 6, 1970, for the purpose of facilitating dialogue between clinicians and scientists doing basic research on amphetamine intoxication.
Abstract
Thirteen papers report on correlated studies on amphetamine-induced behavior. A transcript of the workshop questions and answers following the presentations is provided. Eight papers address the clinical aspects of amphetamine use and abuse, and a transcript is also provided of the questions and answers following the presentation of these papers. As a whole, the papers indicate that most prescriptions for amphetamines are intended for weight control, relief of fatigue, or treatment for mild depression. Amphetamines are apparently effective in achieving these desired effects; however, there are at least three kinds of amphetamine misuse that have been identified among the U.S. population. One type of misuse involves intermittent or consistent use of small amounts of amphetamines orally. Athletes, truck drivers, students, and others hoping to reduce fatigue and increase alertness or performance take average doses in order to cope with anticipated prolonged periods of physical or mental stress. Under certain conditions, such use has produced sudden death, dangerous hallucinations, and drug dependence. A second type of misuse of amphetamines involves chronic, moderate doses taken orally. This may result in difficulty in thinking processes and ability to test reality. The third type of misuse of amphetamines involves chronic, high-dose, intravenous use. Adverse effects from this type of use include a paranoid, impulsive thinking disorder that produces impaired judgment. Although amphetamines are generally considered to be non-addictive, at these high doses, withdrawal symptoms may occur. Although there are no accurate data on the percentage of amphetamine users who become misusers or abusers, clinical experience suggests that it is significant. Chapter tables, figures, and references, and name and subject indexes