|
|
Article: Amphetamines
- Article from:
- World of Forensic Science
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2005 Thomson Gale. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are a family of chemical compounds that are indirect stimulants of the central nervous system (CNS). Amphetamines cause the increased release into the brain of dopamine and norepinephrine, two endogenous (produced by the body) chemical messengers, which in turn stimulate the nervous system. Many drug abusers seeking a boost of physical energy and mental stimulation consume amphetamines due to their cocaine-like behavioral effects. Determining the presence or absence of amphetamines in the
blood
is included in most forensic drug screening tests.
Effects of amphetamines that may be experienced include: increased alertness, appetite inhibition, insomnia, ...