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Amphetamine
Amphetamine, also known by the slang term speed, is a synthetic drug
originally studied (and still used) as an appetite suppressant. It was first
synthesized in 1887 by the German Chemist L. Edeleano, who called it "phenylisopropylamine".
Amphetamine and its derivatives (amphetamines) are part of a broader class of
compounds called phenethylamines.
Amphetamine is a synthetic stimulant used to suppress the appetite, control
weight, and treat disorders including narcolepsy and ADHD. It is also used
recreationally and for performance enhancement. These uses are illegal in most
countries. Despite this, it is a commonly abused drug. Amphetamine can be
snorted, taken orally, smoked, or injected.
The experimental medical use of amphetamines began in the 1920s. It was
introduced in most of the world in the form of the pharmaceutical Benzedrine in
the late 1920s. The drug was used by the militaries of several nations,
especially the air forces, to fight fatigue and increase alertness among
servicemen. After decades of reports of abuse, the FDA banned Benzedrine
inhalers and limited amphetamines to prescription use in 1959, but illegal use
became common.
Chronic amphetamine use can cause severe psychological dependence. Long-term use
can result in extreme exhaustion and malnutrition.
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