Amphetamine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. It is also a popular recreational drug that is known for its euphoric effects. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of amphetamine, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and root words.
Definitions
Amphetamine is a synthetic drug that belongs to the phenethylamine family. It is a potent stimulant that affects the brain and the central nervous system. Amphetamine is also known as alpha-methylphenethylamine, amfetamine, and speed.
According to the World Health Organization, amphetamine is defined as “a synthetic compound used medically in the treatment of certain conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity.” It is also classified as a Schedule II drug by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) due to its high potential for abuse and dependence.
Origin
Amphetamine was first synthesized in 1887 by Romanian chemist Lazăr Edeleanu. However, its stimulant properties were not discovered until the 1920s, when it was used as a nasal decongestant. During World War II, amphetamine was used by soldiers to enhance their performance and combat fatigue.
In the 1950s and 1960s, amphetamine became a popular recreational drug among young people, who used it for its euphoric effects. Today, amphetamine is widely used as a prescription drug for the treatment of ADHD, narcolepsy, and obesity.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of amphetamine varies slightly in different dictionaries. According to Merriam-Webster, amphetamine is “a synthetic or semisynthetic compound that stimulates the central nervous system, often used illicitly for its euphoric effects.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines amphetamine as “a synthetic drug used as a stimulant to treat conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity.”
Associations
Amphetamine is associated with several health risks, including addiction, heart disease, stroke, and psychosis. It is also associated with several side effects, such as insomnia, loss of appetite, and increased heart rate.
Amphetamine is also associated with a subculture of drug users who use it for its euphoric effects. This subculture is often associated with rave parties, electronic dance music, and other forms of youth culture.
Synonyms
The synonyms of amphetamine include speed, crystal, crank, ice, and meth.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of amphetamine, as it is a specific drug with no direct opposite. However, some antonyms of the effects of amphetamine include relaxation, calmness, and sedation.
The same root words
The root words of amphetamine include phenethylamine, alpha-methylphenethylamine, and methylphenidate.
Example Sentences
- The doctor prescribed amphetamine to treat his ADHD symptoms.
- The police found a stash of amphetamine in his car.
- He became addicted to amphetamine after using it as a party drug.
- Amphetamine can cause serious health risks if used improperly.
- The effects of amphetamine can last for several hours.