Stimulants are drugs known for quickening a person 's body and brain. They tend to increase alertness and physical activity. There are many stimulants such as caffeine which can be considered a mild stimulant. Some of the most abused stimulants include cocaine, crack, and amphetamines. Amphetamine has an effect of making people feel high and energized. In this state, drug users usually feel very happy or have a sensation that they possess special powers, such as the ability to fly or to see into the future. Amphetamines affect the release of a body chemical called adrenaline. This hormone can make the heart beat faster and raise a person 's blood pressure. Users may also experience a temporary boost in self confidence and energy. They may also be overactive, as well as repeatedly get up and walk around. They often find it hard to relax or do calm activities such as sleeping and are not very hungry. Other side effects may include irritability, restlessness, tightening of the jaw muscles and teeth grinding. Using this drug can also lead to lack of sleep, nutrition, and even depression. Some people even experience blurred vision, sleeplessness, and dizziness. Many women who use amphetamines find that their periods become irregular or stop (Substance Abuse 2005).
When sold illegally, these drugs are presented in tablets or capsules. Different forms are becoming more available due to illegal manufacturing. Amphetamine sulphate has become the most common type of amphetamine to be abused. This drug is presented in a fine, off-white powder, which contains majority baking powder and laxatives with only a small mixture of amphetamine (Murray 1998). On the street, this drug is known as sulphate, speed, billy whiz, fast, uppers, as well as many other names. When used as prescription, they may be called black beauties, black bombers, black 'n whites, or blues. As prescriptions, amphetamines serve many medical purposes. They are effective for illnesses
Cited: "Amphetamines/ Methamphetamines." Watton on the Web. 5 Dec. 2007 . Murray, John B. "Psychophysiological Aspects of Amphetamine-Methamphetamine Abuse." Journal of Psychology 132.2 (1998): 227-237. Questia. 10 Dec. 2007 . "Substance Abuse." 2005. 1 Dec. 2007 .