Amphetamine

Amphetamine

Amfetamin

Amphetamine Synthesis

Amphetamine numbered

Amphetamine from benzaldehyde

Amphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that belongs to the phenethylamine class of psychoactive substances. It is used medically in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Amphetamines are also commonly abused for their stimulant, performance-enhancing, and euphoric effects. This recreational use has led to widespread illegal production and distribution of amphetamines, posing significant public health and safety concerns.

Medical Uses

Amphetamine is used primarily for the treatment of the following conditions:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Amphetamine, usually in the form of mixed amphetamine salts or lisdexamfetamine, increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. This results in improved focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD.
• Narcolepsy: Amphetamine can help manage the symptoms of narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of muscle weakness (cataplexy). The drug promotes wakefulness and alertness in patients with this condition.
• Obesity: Amphetamine may be prescribed for short-term use as an appetite suppressant in the treatment of obesity, particularly when other weight loss strategies have proven ineffective. However, due to the potential for abuse and serious side effects, its use for this purpose is limited.

Side Effects and Risks

Amphetamine use, both medically and recreationally, carries several potential side effects and risks:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Amphetamines can cause a significant increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which may lead to cardiovascular complications, such as heart attack, stroke, or heart failure, especially in those with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Insomnia: The stimulating effects of amphetamines can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Loss of appetite: Amphetamines can suppress appetite, which may result in weight loss or malnutrition.
• Mood changes: Amphetamines can cause irritability, anxiety, and mood swings in some individuals.
• Dry mouth, headaches, and dizziness: These are common side effects associated with amphetamine use.
• Dependency and addiction: Long-term use of amphetamines can lead to physical and psychological dependence, with withdrawal symptoms occurring upon discontinuation of the drug.

Recreational Use and Abuse

Amphetamines are often abused for their stimulant and euphoric effects, which can include increased energy, alertness, sociability, and a sense of well-being. Common street names for amphetamines include "speed," "uppers," and "bennies." Recreational use of amphetamines can lead to a variety of health risks, including overdose, addiction, and severe psychiatric side effects, such as paranoia, hallucinations, and aggressive behavior.

Recreational use of amphetamines can also contribute to the development of amphetamine use disorder, a substance use disorder characterized by a pattern of amphetamine use that leads to significant impairment or distress. Treatment for amphetamine use disorder often includes behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, and 12-step programs, as well as medical management of withdrawal symptoms and co-occurring mental health disorders.

Legal Status and Regulation

The legal status and regulation of amphetamines vary depending on the country or jurisdiction. In many countries, including the United States, amphetamines are classified as controlled substances due to their high potential for abuse and dependence.

• United States: Amphetamines are classified as Schedule II controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This classification indicates that while the drug has accepted medical uses, it also has a high potential for abuse and may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. In the United States, prescriptions for amphetamines must be written by a licensed medical professional and cannot be refilled, and there are strict regulations governing the production and distribution of the drug.
• European Union: In the European Union, amphetamines are also classified as controlled substances, and their production, distribution, and possession are regulated by national laws. Medical use of amphetamines is permitted with a prescription in most EU countries, though specific regulations may vary.

Detection and Testing

Amphetamines can be detected in various biological samples, such as blood, urine, saliva, and hair. The most common method of testing for amphetamine use is through a urine drug test, which can typically detect the presence of the drug within 2 to 5 days after the last use. Blood tests and oral fluid tests can also detect amphetamines but usually have a shorter detection window, while hair tests can detect amphetamine use for a longer period, often up to 90 days or more after the last use.

Amphetamine Analogues and Derivatives

There are several amphetamine analogues and derivatives that have similar chemical structures and effects to amphetamine. Some of these substances are used medically, while others are primarily used recreationally or have been developed as designer drugs.

• Methamphetamine: Methamphetamine is a more potent and addictive derivative of amphetamine that is used medically to treat ADHD and obesity in some cases. However, its illicit use as a recreational drug, often called "meth" or "crystal," is associated with significant health risks and social problems.
• MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine): Also known as "ecstasy" or "molly," MDMA is a psychoactive substance with both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. It is popularly used recreationally for its euphoric and empathogenic effects but has also been studied for potential therapeutic uses, such as in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Adderall: Adderall is a brand name for a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts, commonly prescribed for the treatment of ADHD. Its use and abuse have gained particular attention in recent years due to its popularity among college students as a "study drug."
• It is important to note that the abuse of amphetamine analogues and derivatives carries similar risks to amphetamine use, including addiction, adverse health effects, and legal consequences.

Amphetamine Resources
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