Stimulants: Cocaine & Meth / Question
Published: June 3, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
What is speed? And how can you help someone who is on it?
Signed: What Is Speed?
Dear What Is Speed?,
Speed is a slang term for amphetamine or methamphetamine, a stimulant drug. It can produce alertness, confidence and raises levels of energy and stamina. It can also reduce appetite and lessen the desire and ability to sleep. While these may sound like positive effects, Speed can become addictive when used regularly and long-term use may have long term health consequences. As with all illegal drugs, serious legal consequences can occur if someone is in possession of this substance. Speed can be swallowed, snorted, smoked, or injected. The 'comedown' off speed can make the user feel tired, lethargic and depressed. This may tempt users to take more, and can lead to dependency. Speed can also cause seizures, heart attacks, strokes, and death from overdose.
What do you do if you know someone who is taking Speed? It is very important for them to get help. If this person does not want help, it may be difficult to convince them that they need it, so you should involve a trusted adult. Because the physical and mental addiction to this (or any addictive substance) is very strong, they will need professional assistance in order to stop using. There are many treatment programs available through local hospitals or community organizations that help people deal with all aspects of their addiction. By introducing the person to resources and showing your support you may help this person to stop using. Recovery can be a long slow process, usually with setbacks and a lot of stress. Being a support person is helpful, but can also be very upsetting and frustrating for you. Make sure that you continue to keep other people involved and let a trusted adult know what you are helping this person through so they can ensure that you are getting the help that you need to deal with this situation.
To get information about available resources in your area, contact your local hospital, health department, teen health center or in northern NJ call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475 to schedule an evaluation. You may get additional information by calling the National Institute on Drug Abuse & Alcoholism at (888) 644.6432.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
One in four teenage girls in the 
