Amphetamines

Amphetamines are drugs that speed up (stimulate) the nervous system. They can raise a person's heart rate and blood pressure. They increase alertness and may create a feeling of euphoria. They can also cause a loss of appetite and trouble sleeping.

Amphetamines may be prescribed to treat conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder. Common prescription amphetamines include dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methamphetamine (Desoxyn).

Amphetamines can be misused. They may be sold illegally with names such as speed, meth, ice, crystal, and crank.

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.

Health Information Library