Amphetamines and Cocaine

Amphetamines and cocaine are both stimulants [26504]. Stimulants are drugs that speed up the messages travelling between the brain and the body. They can increase energy and concentration and reduce hunger and the need to sleep [23510].

Crystal methamphetamine or ‘ice’ is the most common form of methamphetamine used in Australia [48572]. It is also the most potent and addictive stimulant, which is associated with long term negative effects on mental and physical health [37676]. The most common form of cocaine used in Australia is cocaine hydrochloride, a salt that comes from the coca plant [47961].

What are the effects of amphetamines and cocaine?

The more crystal methamphetamine or cocaine are used, the more likely a person will develop physical or mental health problems [23510].

Physical harms may include:

• heart, lung and kidney problems
• risk of stroke
• fits (seizures)
• risks of overdose and blood-borne viruses from injecting.

Psychological harms may include:

• depression
• anxiety and panic attacks
• paranoia
• psychosis
• aggression [49463][49478].

How does it affect communities?

The regular use of amphetamines or cocaine can lead to social problems for the individual, as well as families and communities [23510]. These can include [49599][1]:

• stigma or shame if loved ones are using drugs
• relationships and family connections can break down
• housing instability
• problems with money and finances
• community safety concerns because of increased crime, aggression or violence
• increased contact with the criminal justice system.