Amphetamine is a powerful central stimulant with effects similar to cocaine. Unlike cocaine, amphetamine is chemically synthesized. In Sweden, amphetamine is often referred to as tjack, speed, or uppåttjack. Users may experience increased confidence, sexual arousal, heightened sensory perceptions, and increased energy. Amphetamine is a chemical compound that can have both therapeutic and recreational uses; for example, it is medically used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. The term ‘Speed’ usually refers to illegally produced central stimulant drugs, and speed is often a mixture of amphetamine and other substances, making it less pure and potentially more dangerous.

⬆️ Speed is an “upper” drug that provides rapid and intense stimulating effects.

🔴 Speed has a high risk of addiction due to its powerful stimulating effects. Regular use can quickly lead to both physical and psychological dependence.

Speed is a synthetic stimulant belonging to the amphetamine class. The drug is often a mixture of amphetamine and other substances, making it less pure and potentially more dangerous. Amphetamine/Speed is the second most commonly used controlled substance after cannabis in Sweden, and it is also used in chemsex due to its effects, which eliminate inhibitions and increase sexual desire.

The slang names for amphetamine/speed vary depending on how the amphetamine is produced, its purity, and where it is used. Goey is primarily used as a slang term for amphetamine in Australia, Black Beauties are used for certain types of amphetamine pills, Dexies specifically refer to dextroamphetamine, and Bennies was previously used for amphetamine-based medications.

Speed usually appears as a white or grayish powder and can be finely ground or more crystalline.

💊 Speed can also come in tablet form; the tablets are often white but can come in other colors as well. They may also have symbols or logos on them.

Amphetamine/Speed can be ingested in several ways:

• Powder can be sniffed through the nose.
• The powder can be swallowed rolled up in paper, such as rolling paper like Rizla; this is often called ‘bombing.’
• Tablets or powder can be swallowed directly or mixed with a drink.
• Powder can be dissolved in liquid and injected, which provides a faster and more intense effect.
• Amphetamine/Speed can also be smoked, though this is less common.

Amphetamine/Speed is a central stimulant, meaning it has an activating effect on the central nervous system and on the individual’s behavior. The high can last for several hours, unlike a cocaine high, which lasts about 30 minutes.

The effects of speed come on quickly, especially when sniffed or injected. Users may experience:

• Increased energy, alertness, and awareness
• Enhanced confidence and talkativeness
• Increased sexual arousal
• Improved concentration and endurance

Those who have taken amphetamine often have dilated pupils, a vacant stare, and difficulties standing or sitting still. Feelings of hunger usually disappear, and blood pressure rises. Additionally, the heart may start to beat faster, and breathing may become more rapid.

Speed is sometimes used in chemsex to increase sexual arousal and endurance. Using speed can make a person feel more confident and can lead to longer sex sessions. It can also result in taking risks that one might not otherwise take, as well as excessive physical exertion.

Safer sex with speed:

• Discuss with your partner(s) beforehand to ensure you’re on the same page regarding what sexual activities are okay and your boundaries.
• Have protection such as condoms, lubricants, gloves, and cleaning supplies for plugs and dildos.
• If using a condom during sex, change it after 30 minutes to avoid it wearing out or breaking.
• Take breaks and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and overheating.

It’s important to remember that harm reduction and safer sex strategies vary for different individuals.

An overdose of speed can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Signs of overdose include:

• Chest pain
• Rapid or irregular heart rhythm
• High blood pressure
• Seizures
• Extreme restlessness and agitation
• Unconsciousness

If an overdose is suspected:

• Call an ambulance: 112 is Sweden’s emergency number but also works in all EU countries. Explain that you suspect an overdose and describe the symptoms as accurately as possible. It’s important to be honest about what and how much the person has taken, as this helps medical personnel provide the correct care quickly.
• Keep the person awake and calm: If possible, try to keep the person awake and calm, ensure they are breathing, and keep their airway clear. Sit or place the person in a comfortable position. If the person is unconscious, place them in the recovery position to keep the airway clear and reduce the risk of choking.
• Keep the person cool: Ensure the person is in a cool environment, for example, by opening windows, doors, or using a fan. Cool them with cold, wet towels, placing them on areas where large blood vessels pass, such as the neck, forehead, armpits, and groin. Offer small amounts of water. Avoid using extremely cold water or ice directly on the skin, as this can worsen the condition.
• During a seizure: Protect the person from injury during the seizure, but do not restrain them. Place something soft under their head, but make sure it doesn’t obstruct breathing. Once the seizure is over, place the person on their side with their head slightly tilted back (this helps with breathing and allows mucus and saliva to drain out of the mouth).
• Stay with the person: Check their breathing and pulse regularly. If their breathing becomes irregular or stops, or if the pulse is weak or undetectable, you may need to perform CPR. If you’re unsure how to do this, follow instructions from the emergency operator (112).

Speed carries a high risk of addiction due to its powerful stimulating effects. Regular use can quickly lead to both physical and psychological dependence. Users can develop tolerance, meaning they need larger doses to achieve the same effect.

Under “Support and Contacts”, you can find out where to seek medical detox and addiction treatment

Combining speed with other drugs can be dangerous:

• Alcohol can mask the effects of speed and increase the risk of overdose.
• Cocaine increases the risk of heart problems.
• GHB/GBL can suppress the effects of speed, which may lead to taking too much.
• MDMA/Ecstasy increases the risk of dehydration and heart problems.

Speed can negatively affect HIV treatment by weakening the immune system and altering the medication’s effectiveness. Long-term use may lead to forgetting to take medication regularly.

🕐 Always carry your HIV medication with you. Set an alarm or reminder on your phone to help you remember to take them. Take substances and HIV medications at different times to reduce the risk of side effects. Always take low doses of substances when taking medications at the same time.

🗣️ Talk to your doctor or someone knowledgeable about interactions between HIV medication and amphetamines/speed.