AMFETAMINE Meaning and
Definition
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Amphetamine is a powerful central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that belongs to the phenethylamine class of psychoactive substances. It is commonly referred to as amphetamine or amfetamine, and is often used interchangeably with the term "speed" colloquially.
Amfetamine is known for its stimulant effects on the brain, increasing alertness, energy, and focus. It primarily functions by enhancing the release and inhibiting reuptake of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. This leads to increased synaptic concentrations of these chemicals, resulting in heightened neural activity and increased overall arousal.
The drug has been used medicinally to treat conditions such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, as it can help to improve focus and decrease excessive daytime sleepiness. It may also be prescribed in certain cases for obesity management, due to its appetite-suppressing effects.
However, amfetamine also has significant abuse potential and is classified as a controlled substance in most countries. It is frequently misused for its euphoric effects by individuals seeking a recreational high or enhanced performance, as it can promote a sense of well-being, increased confidence, and heightened motivation. Prolonged or excessive use can lead to a range of negative health consequences, including cardiovascular problems, psychiatric disorders, and addiction.
In summary, amfetamine is a potent CNS stimulant that acts by increasing the release and inhibiting the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters. While it has legitimate medical uses, misuse or abuse of the drug can result in harmful physical and mental effects.
Common Misspellings for AMFETAMINE
- zmfetamine
- smfetamine
- wmfetamine
- qmfetamine
- anfetamine
- akfetamine
- ajfetamine
- amdetamine
- amcetamine
- amvetamine
- amgetamine
- amtetamine
- amretamine
- amfwtamine
- amfstamine
- amfdtamine
- amfrtamine
- amf4tamine
- amf3tamine
- amferamine
Etymology of AMFETAMINE
The word "Amfetamine" or "Amphetamine" is derived from its chemical name, which is α-methylphenethylamine.
The term "amphetamine" was first coined in the late 19th century when the German chemist Lazăr Edeleanu synthesized this compound. He combined the prefix "ampho-" (derived from the Greek word "amphi" meaning "both" or "double") and the suffix "-amine" (indicating a nitrogen-containing compound) to describe its chemical structure, as it has a symmetrical structure with two methyl (CH3) groups attached to the alpha carbon.
The term "amphetamine" began to be used more commonly when the pharmaceutical company Smith, Kline & French introduced the drug Benzedrine in the 1930s.
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