Some types of amphetamines are prescribed medications to treat conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy. These usually come in pill or tablet form and are prescribed by a medical practitioner. It is recommended to discuss use with a health professional.
Methamphetamines are a type of amphetamines which are produced and sold illegally. Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant drug which works quickly to create a large release of dopamine, the brains pleasure chemical.
Most commonly, methamphetamine comes in three main forms: speed, base and ice (crystal methamphetamine).
Speed generally comes in the form of a white or yellow powder but can also come in tablet form. It is often ‘cut’ with other substances (which can have harmful effects) to dilute it and make it go further. It is difficult to tell what the drug contains.
Base is an oily or wet substance which ranges in colour from white to yellow or brown.
Ice (crystal methamphetamine) is a purer form of methamphetamine, which generally comes in a colourless or white crystal form, or a rough, crystal-like powder. Ice is claimed to be the most highly addictive form of methamphetamine, largely due to its purity, which causes a more powerful and dangerous effect.
Other nicknames for amphetamine and methamphetamines:
Speed: go-ee, whiz, uppers. Base: paste, wax. Crystal methamphetamine: ice, glass, crystal, meth, crystal meth, shabu.
Amphetamines affect everyone differently, based on a person’s height, weight and health, previous experience, the amount taken and the strength of the drug. Methamphetamine takes effect quickly (within minutes if smoked or injected and around half an hour if snorted or swallowed). Depending on the person and the amount consumed, the effect can last between 4-12 hours, but it can take days for the drug to completely leave the body.
The short-term/immediate effects of amphetamine/methamphetamine can include:
Users often experience a ‘comedown’ phase or ‘crash’ when the drug starts to wear off. These feelings can last days a few days and symptoms can include feeling down or depressed, exhaustion, irritability, increased need for sleep and decreased appetite.
The long term effects of amphetamine/methamphetamine can include:
With regular use, anyone can develop a tolerance which means more of the drug is required to feel the same effects. Dependence on amphetamines can develop with regular use which means the person feels they need amphetamines to go about their normal activities like working, studying, and socialising, or to get through the day.
Amphetamine use can have a range of social consequences and impact an individuals schooling/work, relationships and behaviour. It can also cause financial issues, family problems and can also have legal consequences.
Overdose from amphetamines or methamphetamines may look like:
Mixing with other drugs can have unpredictable effects and increase the risk of overdose. Overdose risk is also increased if using alone and after a period of not using.
If a person shows signs of an amphetamine overdose, it is important to seek urgent medical help by calling an ambulance on Triple Zero (000) and follow their advice. Wait with the person and stay calm and respectful while talking to them. If the person has been mixing methamphetamines with other drugs, tell the NSW Ambulance paramedic exactly what they have taken. Paramedics are there to help.
To reduce harm related to prescription amphetamines, it is important to follow dosage instructions and medical advice provided by your health professional who prescribed them. It is important to be honest if using alcohol or other drugs while using amphetamines.
There are ways to reduce harms associated with amphetamines:
The safest option is not to consume methamphetamine.
In an emergency or crisis situation always call triple zero (000) for police, fire and ambulance and follow instructions.
For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drugs 24 hours, 7 days a week, call the National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800 250 015.
For free toxologist advice, call the poisons hotline: 13 11 26
Need some help but not sure where to turn? We can help. Connect with us or visit the Find Support Now page.
More infoVisit the Your Room website for more information about amphetamine or methamphetamine effects, dependence, risks, support services and other information.
More infoKey references and resources:
Alcohol and Drug Foundation 2025, Amphetamines, accessed on 10/03/2025 via https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/amphetamines/
NSW Health, Methamphetamine, accessed on 10/03/2025 via https://yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au/a-z-of-drugs/Pages/methamphetamine.aspx
