amphetamines

amphetamines druges

amphetamines were first discovered in the 1800s but their medical uses were not recognised until the 1930s. Then they were used to counter low blood pressure, help asthmatics breathe more easily and suppress appetite.

Later amphetamines were prescribed for a whole range of disorders including inability to sleep, epilepsy, migraine, depression and hyperactivity in children. In the 1950s and 1960s they were widely marketed as slimming tablets.

More recently medical prescribing of amphetamines has fallen greatly although they are still used for sleep problems. Following widespread prescribing of amphetamines (or amphetamine-like drugs such as Ritalin), in America to children who have behaviour problems, this type of use is now growing in the UK.

Amphetamine is a strong stimulant that can make people feel alert and energised. It also usually lifts mood.

Amphetamine has a varied history. It has often been given to soldiers in wars and at one point was used as a diet pill.

Non-medical use of amphetamines grew in the UK in the 1960s especially among teenage 'mods'. The use of 'purple hearts' (a combination of amphetamine and barbiturate) by thousands of young people led to the first post war drug craze (and media drug scare) in the UK In 1964, unauthorised possession of amphetamine was banned.

Amphetamine is a stimulant and an appetite suppressant. It stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain) by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the body. This increases heart rate and blood pressure and decreases appetite, among other effects.

Amphetamine is used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD).

Amphetamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.