Amphetamines were first prescribed to individuals who suffered from asthma, nasal congestion, colds and hay fever. Synthesized in 1887 by Smith, Kline and French, a drug company, it wasn’t until 40 years later that the drug was given for the aforementioned medical conditions.  In 1935, it began to be prescribed to individuals who suffered from narcolepsy, a sleep disorder condition that causes sufferers to suddenly fall asleep without warning.  Later it would be given to opiate addicts in hopes of helping them curb or stop their drug use.  Today, amphetamine is used for both legitimate and illegal recreational purposes.  It is given quite often to persons who suffer from ADHD, which is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder because it helps improve concentration, which people that suffer from this condition often lack. It is also still prescribed for narcolepsy.

One of the most notable illegal amphetamines is methamphetamine.  It is also known as crystal meth.  This is an incredibly powerful, potent and dangerous drug.  Individuals that take it are prone to addiction, rapid physical degeneration and violence. Some parts of the United States have suffered huge waves of methamphetamine addiction along with the disruption and destruction to the user and their community.

Speed is another popular and illegal amphetamine.  Though it does have risks associated with it, crystal meth is considered much more dangerous and is the illegal amphetamine that most people feel poses the biggest threat and is the cause for the most concern.

Besides narcolepsy and ADHD, amphetamine is also sometimes prescribed to individuals who need to lose weight. It gives them more energy and also helps to curb their appetite. Though this was given more often in the past but this purpose, lately it is pretty much frowned upon because of the associated dangers and risk.

Today, amphetamine has both legal and illegal uses. It is often prescribed to individuals who suffer from ADHD and narcolepsy. Persons may steal it or buy it on the streets just like they would methamphetamine and speed. Even though the potential for the abuse and addiction of meth and speed are obvious, legal forms of amphetamines are also addicting and many more people then should also use them recreationally.