Takeaway:
- The cross top pill has a long history of use and misuse.
- Known also as bennies, these pills contain amphetamine.
- They were initially prescribed for medical purposes but are now often abused.
- Understanding the risks and history of benzedrine can help people make informed decisions about their health.
When it comes to the world of amphetamines, there’s a lot of confusion and misinformation, especially around the cross top pill. Known for its distinct appearance, the cross top pill is often associated with stimulant abuse and addiction. Whether you’ve heard it referred to as bennies or by its medical name benzedrine, there’s a lot to learn about this pill and its effects. Below are 13 things you probably didn’t know about this widely misunderstood stimulant.
1. What is a Cross Top Pill?
The cross top pill is a type of amphetamine tablet that has a distinct “cross” imprint on its surface, which divides the pill into four sections. This design makes it easier to break the pill into smaller doses. Amphetamines like these are powerful stimulants that affect the central nervous system, increasing alertness, energy, and focus.
2. Originally Developed for Medical Use
The cross top pill was not always associated with abuse. In fact, amphetamines were originally developed for medical purposes. They were prescribed to treat conditions like ADHD, narcolepsy, and sometimes even depression. Amphetamine, known as benzedrine was a popular form of treatment for various ailments in the early 20th century.
3. Bennies Became Popular in the 20th Century
You may have heard of bennies, a slang term for cross top pills. During the mid-20th century, bennies became widely used, not just for medical reasons but also recreationally. They were especially popular among students and professionals who needed a quick energy boost to stay awake and alert. However, their popularity for non-medical use eventually led to widespread abuse.
4. Cross Top Pills Were Once Used by the Military
Believe it or not, cross top pills were given to soldiers during World War II. Amphetamines were used to keep troops awake and alert during long missions. The military believed the stimulant properties of benzedrine would improve soldiers’ performance and endurance in combat situations.
5. The Pill Has a High Risk of Abuse and Addiction
One of the most significant dangers associated with cross top pills is their high potential for abuse. Because amphetamines create feelings of euphoria and increased energy, people who misuse these pills often develop a dependency. Regular misuse can lead to addiction, with severe consequences for mental and physical health.
6. They Impact the Brain’s Dopamine Levels
Amphetamines like those found in cross top pills stimulate the brain to release large amounts of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in pleasure and reward. This surge of dopamine can create a feeling of intense euphoria, which is part of why these pills are so addictive. Over time, repeated use of bennies can disrupt the brain’s natural dopamine production, leading to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not present.
7. Cross Top Pills Can Cause Dangerous Side Effects
While some may turn to cross top pills for an energy boost or heightened focus, the side effects can be quite severe. Users may experience increased heart rate, high blood pressure, insomnia, and even hallucinations or paranoia in higher doses. Long-term misuse can lead to more serious complications like heart disease, stroke, and severe mental health issues.
8. What is a Cross Top Pill’s Link to Weight Loss?
Another reason people misuse cross top pills is for weight loss. Amphetamines suppress appetite, which can result in rapid weight loss. However, this is not a safe or sustainable method of losing weight, as it can lead to malnutrition, heart problems, and other health risks. The dangers of using bennies for weight loss far outweigh any perceived benefits.
9. Cross Top Pills Were Pulled from the Market for Safety Reasons
Because of their high potential for abuse and dangerous side effects, cross top pills like benzedrine were eventually pulled from the market for general use. Today, amphetamines are still prescribed for medical conditions, but they are highly regulated and monitored by doctors to prevent abuse.
10. Mixing Cross Top Pills with Other Substances Can Be Fatal
Mixing cross top pills with other substances, especially alcohol or other stimulants, can be incredibly dangerous. The combination of substances can lead to overdose, heart attack, stroke, or even death. The stimulant effects of bennies can mask the depressive effects of alcohol, making it easy to underestimate how intoxicated a person is, which increases the risk of fatal consequences.
11. Withdrawal from Cross Top Pills Can Be Severe
People who become dependent on cross top pills often experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit. These symptoms can include extreme fatigue, depression, irritability, and intense cravings for the drug. Because benzedrine impacts the brain’s reward system, quitting without medical support can be incredibly difficult and often leads to relapse.
12. Cross Top Pill Addiction Can Affect Mental Health
Long-term abuse of cross top pills can have significant effects on mental health. Users may develop anxiety, depression, or psychosis as a result of prolonged use. In some cases, these mental health issues can persist even after someone stops using the pills, which is why it’s crucial to seek professional help when quitting.
13. Help is Available for Cross Top Pill Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to cross top pills, there is help available. Addiction can feel overwhelming, but recovery is possible with the right support. Treatment options include therapy, medical detox, and rehabilitation programs that can help address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
If you are dealing with an addiction to cross top pills or other stimulants like benzedrine, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Addiction is a complex disease, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Vita Nova, we offer personalized treatment plans designed to help you overcome addiction and regain control of your life. Don’t wait—call Vita Nova today at 866-770-0635 and take the first step toward recovery.
