Amphetamines are powerful stimulants. They improve the synaptic activity of two important neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine.  Once consumed, they create reactions in the body that are similar to another popular drug, cocaine.  Individuals that use amphetamine, whether or not it is a prescription medication or an illegal drug such as methamphetamine, will experience increased blood pressure and heart rate. Their pupils may dilate. They may feel powerful, alert and focused.  They will also have more energy.  Some people use amphetamines illegally in order to stay awake for long periods of time and to stay alert.  There have been reports of individuals in certain professions relying on amphetamines in order to perform their duties optimally. Truck drivers, airline pilots and sometimes even physicians, have been rumored to take amphetamines for the aforementioned reasons.

At one time, amphetamines were legal and could be purchased over the counter. They were also used to treat asthma, narcolepsy and hyperactivity. One of the most well-known amphetamines is an illegal one, methamphetamine (meth).  Methamphetamine is one of the most popular and worrisome types of amphetamine.  It is extremely addicting and powerful.  Individuals are able to stay high for hours.  Because the drug can be bought inexpensively on the street, more and more drug users are opting for meth instead of other commonly abused illegal drugs. Users, in effect, get more “bang for the buck”. It is a 'cheap high' that is not only powerful, but lasts a relatively long time.

Methamphetamine addicts face a difficult road to recovery and may also experience some very serious and dangerous effects.  It is possible to overdose and die if too much meth is taken.  Individuals also tend to get violent and aggressive.  There are often a lot of domestic violence issues surrounding chronic methamphetamine use.  Individuals also tend to physically degenerate at a rapid speed.  One may develop sores on the skin. Their teeth may rot out. They may lose a significant amount of weight and become no longer interested in personal hygiene and care.

Amphetamines are central nervous system stimulants. They are very powerful and potentially addicting. There are legitimate, legal uses for amphetamine and there are also a number of illegal drugs that fall under this classification. Speed and amphetamine are two of the most well-known of the latter.