Amphetamine is a stimulant that was discovered in 1887. The stimulant treats attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Recreational use of amphetamine has adverse health effects and hence it should only be used as a prescription drug. Heavy use of amphetamine will lead to addiction. Some people use amphetamines to improve their performance. When taken in oral therapeutic doses, amphetamines increase physical strength, stamina and endurance. High doses can impede an athlete’s performance through muscle breakdown and increased body temperature.

How Long Do Amphetamines Stay in Your System?

The detection period for any drug depends on its metabolism rate, the user’s physical condition, and fluid intake. The frequency and method of use play a role in the detection period as well. Hence, detection periods are different for different individuals. The initial cutoff concentrations for testing are 1,000 ng/ml while the confirmation test is 500 ng/ml. Concentrations in blood are used to determine if amphetamines were taken as recreational drugs or for therapeutic reasons.

The answer to “How long do amphetamines stay in your systems?” lies in the stimulant’s detection period. With different tests there are different detection period:

• A blood test for amphetamines has a detection window of 12 hours;
• A urine test has 1-2 days.
• A saliva test has 1-5 days.
• A hair follicle test can be used to detect amphetamines for up to 90 days.

How Does Amphetamines Affect You?

Having answered the question, "How long do amphetamines stay in your system?" it is important to look at their effects on your system.

If You Use Amphetamines Properly

If you use Amphetamines for medical reasons, amphetamines help treat ADHD, narcolepsy, depression, nasal congestion, obesity, etc. The stimulant improves brain development and enhances nerve growth. Bur the real concerns is that many people abuse it or use it as a recreational drug. Besides, it can also increase your confidence.

If You Abuse Amphetamines

Amphetamines have many side effects when abused. These effects depend on the user and the duration of the abuse. The mood symptoms of amphetamine abuse include euphoria, high alertness, irritability, depression, anxiety and mood swings. Hallucinations, paranoia and psychosis may also happen. The behavioral symptoms include increased hostility, aggressiveness, changes in sexual behavior, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, talking very fast and excessively and teeth grinding. Besides, the physical symptoms of amphetamine abuse also include increases in body temperature and blood pressure, dilation of pupils and changes in breathing rates. Others include a dry mouth, low appetite, nausea, headaches, an irregular heartbeat, blurred vision and malnutrition.

When Amphetamines Withdraw

Amphetamines are highly addictive and quitting is challenging, especially if used for a long period. They have adverse withdrawal effects and users require professional help to quit. Their withdrawal effects include depression, anxiety, severe fatigue, flu-like pain, cravings and suicidal thoughts.

How Long Do Other Drugs Stay In Your System?

Since you have known "How long do amphetamines stay in your system?" now let's look at some other drugs. Drugs have different detection periods, depending on their metabolism rates and users. The table below outlines detection periods for some common drugs based on different detection tests.