What are Black Beauties?

Many people take prescription stimulant drugs to manage the symptoms of medical and mental health conditions. For decades, a potent stimulant drug called Biphetamine 20 was the prescription stimulant of choice for many. Some called these highly addictive stimulants “black beauties.”

Today, Biphetamine 20 pills are no longer available legally. However, people may still abuse the black beauty pill. This powerful stimulant has a high potential for abuse and addiction.

Stimulant addiction is a serious problem in the United States. Stimulant abuse can lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening health conditions. This article will explore the risk of black beauty abuse. You will learn:

If you or someone you love struggles with stimulant abuse, you are not alone. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.

What are Black Beauties?

“Black beauties” is a slang term referring to a drug called Biphetamine 20. Biphetamine 20 is a potent stimulant drug that contains 10mg each of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Stimulant drugs like Biphetamine 20 increase central nervous system (CNS) activity. Increased CNS activity can relieve symptoms associated with ADHD and other conditions.

In the past, people may have taken Biphetamine 20 to manage sleep disorders or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In the 1960s and 70s, recreational use of Biphetamine 20 increased. People would sell it as a street drug under the name “black beauties.”

This potent drug has the potential for serious side effects and long-term health risks. Today, Biphetamine 20 is only available illegally. People who abuse this Schedule II controlled substance may quickly develop an addiction to it.

People who develop stimulant abuse often require intensive treatment to overcome it. If you or someone you love struggles with addiction to black beauty or other stimulants, seek treatment right away. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about treatment or to schedule an intake appointment.

Understanding the Effects of the Black Beauty Drug

Stimulants like Biphetamine 20 increase activity in the central nervous system (CNS). They cause the brain to release more dopamine and norepinephrine. These brain chemicals affect a person’s alertness, energy levels, and mood.

Substances that affect the brain’s dopamine levels typically have the potential for abuse and addiction. People may like the way they feel while taking the black beauty drug. They may begin to abuse it by:

• Taking larger doses
• Taking it more often
• Taking it differently than usual, such as snorting it

Over time, the body and brain can adjust to the presence of a stimulant. Prolonged stimulant abuse can change the body and brain. These changes can make it very hard for someone to stop taking a stimulant drug when they choose.

Short-term side effects of stimulant abuse include:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Mood swings
• Tremors
• Restlessness
• Elevated body temperature
• Difficulty sleeping
• Decreased appetite

Prolonged stimulant abuse can lead to serious, long-term health effects, including:

• Higher risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attack and stroke
• Dental issues, including severe tooth decay
• Dangerous weight loss or malnutrition
• New or worsening mental health problems, including anxiety, paranoia, depression, and hallucinations
• Chronic insomnia
• Suppressed immunity

Overcoming stimulant abuse can be challenging. Many people with addiction require intensive medical care, behavioral therapies, supervision, and other evidence-based treatments.

Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our stimulant abuse treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

Archstone Behavioral Health accepts many major insurance plans, including:

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Recognizing and Treating Stimulant Abuse and Addiction

Recognizing stimulant abuse is the first step toward getting treatment to overcome it. Stimulant abuse can change a person’s mood, behaviors, appearance, and more. Knowing the signs can help you seek treatment for yourself or a loved one.

Some signs of stimulant abuse include:

• Finishing a prescription early
• Buying or stealing prescription stimulant drugs
• Physical changes, such as quick weight loss, neglected hygiene, and dilated pupils
• Neglecting responsibilities, increased isolation, or spending a lot of time getting and using stimulants
• Mood changes, such as increased anxiety, agitation, or energy levels
• Excessive talkativeness or agitation

People who develop an addiction to stimulants may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking them. It is critical to seek treatment to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety during detox.

A stimulant detox and treatment plan might include:

• Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Education about addiction, recovery, coping skills, and more
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other behavioral therapies
• Individual and family counseling
• Support groups or group therapy
• Holistic therapies like mindfulness, acupuncture, nutrition support, and exercise
• Aftercare planning

Find Stimulant Addiction Treatment Now

Treatment and ongoing support make it possible to overcome stimulant addiction. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our SUD treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ): Plague of Black Beauties and Red Devils
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine
3. Taylor & Francis Online: A review of amphetamine extended release once-daily options for the management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder