Chemicals that are commonly referred to as amphetamines include amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, and methamphetamine. The chemical properties of these compounds cause users to have effects that are so similar that they often cannot tell which of the drugs they have consumed, even if they are very experienced users.
Amphetamine was first sold as an over the counter drug called Benzedrine and was used to treat nasal congestion in the 1930's. By 1937 this drug was sold as a prescription drug in tablet form and was also available for the treatment of narcolepsy, a sleeping disorder. It was also used to treat a behavioral disorder called Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, or ADHD.
Amphetamines were used in World War 2 to help soldiers keep moving even when they were very tired. As their availability spread, they began to be abused more often by more people. They were soon known as the cure-all for many types of personal issues, such as weight control, improving sleep, treating depression, and even helping athletes train longer and harder in order to get better results. Some users began injecting the drug through their veins and were known as "speed freaks." Before long it became evident to the public that the negative effects of amphetamines strongly outweighed their benefits.
Today amphetamines are used to treat narcolepsy, some types of depression, and ADHD. However, due to the potential for its abuse, the use of amphetamines is strictly monitored and other methods are used whenever possible.
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