Amphetamine Intoxication and Dependence in Admissions to a Psychiatric Unit

Abstract

The absence of specific physical or psychological symptoms of amphetamine intoxication, coupled with the patient's reluctance to admit dependence upon these drugs makes recognition of these complications difficult. In order to overcome this, Connell (1958) suggested that the methyl orange test for amphetamine substance in urine might be carried out as a routine procedure on all admissions to psychiatric hospitals. As yet, no reports have been made on the value of this procedure.