amphetamines
pl. n. a group of synthetic drugs (substituted phenylethylamines) that stimulate the reticular formation in the brain and cause a release of stored norepinephrine. The effect is a prolonged state of arousal and relief from feelings of fatigue (see CNS stimulant). Amphetamines were introduced in 1932 for a variety of clinical uses. During World War II, they were widely dispensed to combat soldiers to enable them to remain alert for periods of up to 60 hours. Tolerance develops progressively with continued use until the individual reaches a point of exhaustion and sleeps continuously for several days. Amphetamine abuse can result in dependence and a well-defined state of psychosis (see amphetamine dependence; amphetamine-induced psychotic disorder). Although widely used in the past for weight loss, relief of depression, and other indications, modern use of amphetamines is more circumscribed
because of their adverse effects. They are now used mainly in short- and long-acting preparations to manage symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and to treat certain cases of severe depression or narcolepsy, and they still maintain a military use in the management of fatigue. Amphetamines include amphetamine itself (the prototype), dextroamphetamine, and methamphetamine. Related drugs, with a similar mode of action but different molecular structure, include methylphenidate. In addition, some forms and derivatives (including DOM, MDA, and MDMA) have been manufactured as recreational hallucinogenic drugs.