Amphetamine(m)-HRP

Amphetamines are synthetic drugs, which cause powerful CNS stimulation resulting in euphoric effects similar to that of cocaine. They can also cause increased alertness, self-confidence and the ability to concentrate(1, 2). They are potent sympathomimetic agents with a range of therapeutic applications, for example they can be used to treat mild depression, obesity, narcolepsy and certain behavioural disorders in children(1, 3). Isomeric forms of amphetamine and methamphetamine exist and the D-isomer (dextroamphetamine) is four times as potent as the L-isomer(2). MDMA is one of the most common amphetamine analogues on the illicit market. It was previously used as an adjunct to psychotherapy but it was placed on the schedule of controlled substances in 1988. Despite this, it still remains very popular as a recreational drug. MDMA is metabolised to MDA, another drug known for its central stimulant properties(2, 4)