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WHAT ARE AMPHETAMINES? What is their effect on the mind? Amphetamines are that speed up the The effects of amphetamines are similar to , body’s system. Some are legally prescribed and used but their onset is slower and their duration is longer. to treat -deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In contrast to cocaine, which is quickly removed from the brain and is almost completely metabolized, WHAT IS THEIR ORIGIN? remains in the central nervous Amphetamines were first marketed in the 1930s as system longer, and a larger percentage of the Benzedrine in an over-the-counter to treat remains unchanged in the body, producing prolonged nasal congestion. effects. By 1937 amphetamines were available by Chronic abuse produces a that prescription in form and were used in the resembles and is characterized by treatment of the sleeping disorder and , picking at the skin, preoccupation with one’s ADHD. own thoughts, and auditory and visual . Over the years, the use and abuse of clandestinely Violent and erratic behavior is frequently seen among produced amphetamines have spread. Today, chronic users of amphetamines. clandestine laboratory production of amphetamines has mushroomed, and the abuse of the drug has What is their effect on the body? increased dramatically. Physical effects of use include: • Increased pressure and pulse rates, , loss What are common street names? of appetite, and physical exhaustion Common street names include: • Bennies, Black Beauties, Crank, Ice, Speed, and Uppers What are their overdose effects? Overdose effects include: What do they look like? • Agitation, increased body temperature, hallucinations, Amphetamines can look like pills or powder. , and possible Common prescription amphetamines include amphetamine and Which cause similar effects? (®), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine®), Drugs that cause similar effects include: lisdexamphetamine (Vyvanse™) and • Dexmethylphendiate, , cocaine, crack, methamphetamine (Desoxyn®). and

How are they abused? What is their legal status in the United States? Amphetamines are generally taken orally or injected. Many amphetamines are Schedule II stimulants, However, the addition of “ice,” the slang name which means that they have a high potential for of crystallized methamphetamine hydrochloride, has abuse and a currently acceptable medical use (in promoted as another mode of FDA-approved products). Pharmaceutical products administration. Just as “crack” is smokable cocaine, are available only through a prescription that cannot “ice” is smokable methamphetamine. be refilled.