Amphetamines

Photo courtesy of DEA photo library

Definition
Amphetamines were first synthesized in 1887 and they are potent central nervous system stimulants. There are two chemical forms of amphetamines called isomers. The d-isomer has three to four times the central nervous system activity as the l-isomer.

Methamphetamine and designer drugs, such as "Ecstasy," fall into the amphetamine class. Legitimate medical uses include the treatment of obesity, narcolepsy, and hypotension (low blood pressure). Amphetamines are widely abused for their stimulant effects.

Slang Terms
Speed, Ice, Uppers

Usage
Amphetamines are frequently administered as oral tablets. They can also be injected intravenously. Methamphetamine is gaining popularity in the United States as a drug of abuse and has seen the highest gain in percentage of users.

Effects
Amphetamines are stimulants and increase the body’s heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. Additional effects include dilated pupils, increased sweating, agitation, hyperthermia (increased body temperature), convulsions, unconsciousness, heart failure, heart attack, and stroke.

Detection
Amphetamines can be detected in urine, hair, and saliva. The lab analysis can further determine the concentration of the d-isomer and the l-isomer. This is an important distinction to make since most illegally manufactured amphetamines contain a high concentration of the d-isomer.

Law
There are many medications available in both the U.S. and overseas that contain amphetamine and methamphetamine. Most require a prescription from a physician, but some amphetamines and methamphetamines are sold as over-the-counter (OTC) medications. It is important to know the d-isomer concentration of methamphetamine in a donor’s urine sample when they claim to have used an OTC medication.