DEA Drug Fact Sheet: Amphetamines

What are Amphetamines?

Amphetamines are chemicals that stimulate the central nervous system. Legally, they are used primarily to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sometimes narcolepsy.

Origin and History

• 1930s: First marketed as Benzedrine in an over-the-counter inhaler to treat nasal congestion.
• 1937: Became available by prescription in tablet form for the treatment of narcolepsy and ADHD.
• Current Trends: Today, the clandestine laboratory production of amphetamines has mushroomed, leading to a dramatic increase in abuse.

Appearance and Street Names

• Appearance: Amphetamines can look like pills or powder.
• Common Prescription Forms: Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall®), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine®), lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse™), and methamphetamine (Desoxyn®).
• Street Names: Bennies, Black Beauties, Crank, Ice, Speed, and Uppers.

Methods of Abuse

• Ingestion: Generally taken orally or injected.
• Smoking: The appearance of “ice” (crystallized methamphetamine hydrochloride) has promoted smoking as a common mode of administration. Just as “crack” is smokable cocaine, “ice” is smokable methamphetamine.

Effects of Use

Effect on the Mind

The effects of amphetamines are similar to those of cocaine, but with a slower onset and longer duration.

• Longevity: Unlike cocaine, which is quickly metabolized, methamphetamine remains in the central nervous system longer, producing prolonged stimulant effects.
• Psychosis: Chronic abuse can produce a psychosis resembling schizophrenia, characterized by paranoia, picking at the skin, preoccupation with one’s own thoughts, and auditory and visual hallucinations.
• Behavior: Violent and erratic behavior is frequently seen among chronic users.

Effect on the Body

Physical effects of amphetamine use include:

• Increased blood pressure and pulse rates.
• Insomnia.
• Loss of appetite and physical exhaustion.

Overdose Effects

An overdose of amphetamines can result in:

• Agitation and increased body temperature.
• Hallucinations and convulsions.
• Possible death.

Similar Substances

Drugs that cause similar effects include:

• Dexmethylphenidate and phendimetrazine.
• Cocaine and crack.
• Khat.

Legal Status in the United States

Most amphetamines are classified as Schedule II stimulants.

• Abuse Potential: They have a high potential for abuse.
• Medical Use: They have a currently accepted medical use in FDA-approved products.
• Regulation: Pharmaceutical products are available only through a prescription that cannot be refilled.