special subjects
Amphetamines
Introduction
Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that are used to treat certain medical conditions but are also subject to abuse. Amphetamines increase alertness, enhance physical performance, and produce euphoria and a sense of well-being. Amphetamines suppress appetite and some people misuse amphetamines to lose weight. An overdose can cause extreme agitation, delirium, and a life-threatening high body temperature, Acute Coronary Syndromes (Heart Attack; Myocardial Infarction; Unstable Angina) , or Urine tests can detect most amphetamines. For an overdose, treatment involves sedatives, blood pressure–lowering medications, and sometimes cooling treatments. (See also Overview of Substance-Related Disorders .) in the United States. Use of Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is growing in popularity. Amphetamines are usually taken by mouth but can be snorted, smoked, or injected. Because some amphetamines are widely used as treatment for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) , users are depressed and seek the mood-elevating effects of these stimulants to temporarily relieve the Depression . Others use them during high-energy activities. Amphetamines cause more High doses of amphetamines may raise body temperature to dangerous levels. 