Amphetamine

/æmˈfɛtəmiːn/ noun

Definition

A synthetic stimulant drug that increases alertness, energy, and focus but can be addictive and dangerous if misused.

Etymology

From 'alpha-methylphenethylamine,' the chemical compound's name. Synthesized in 1887 by German chemist Lazăr Edeleanu. The name combines Greek elements referring to its chemical structure.

Kelly Says

Amphetamines were first marketed as a cold medicine inhaler you could sniff—doctors had no idea they'd become one of the 20th century's most problematic drugs.

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