Amphetamines were first produced synthetically in the 19th Century and by the early 20th Century were being used to treat colds as a decongestant. Natural derivatives of amphetamine can be found in the leaves of the Ephedra and Khat plants.
Amphetamine is a controlled substance available by prescription and on the illicit market. Prescription medications that contain amphetamine include Dexedrine, Dextrostat®, Desoxyn®, ProCentra® and Vyvanse®. Amphetamines belong to a class of potent sympathomimetic agents with therapeutic applications, as they work to mimic the sympathetic nervous system. Amphetamines work to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This psychostimulant drug is used to treat such medical problems as ADHD, traumatic brain injury and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Often used as a drug of abuse, amphetamine is often used as a performance enhancer and appetite suppressant. It can also produce several emotional and social effects. It may give the user feelings of empathy, enhanced libido, self-confidence and invincibility.
Low doses can cause alertness, increased motor skill and energy, irritability, restlessness and panic. High doses can lead to antisocial behaviour, aggressiveness, hallucinations and/or brief psychosis. Depending on the level of consumption/concentration, amphetamine can cause strokes, heart attacks and kidney failure.
Withdrawal symptoms can consist of confusion, apathy, irritability, depression, increased appetite and severe fatigue. Toxicology detection can last anywhere between 48-72 hours.
Amphetamine Street Names
- Bennies
- Black Beauties
- Bumble Bees
- Co-pilots
- Cross Tops
- Dexies
- Footballs
- Speed
- Uppers