What is Methamphetamine

What is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine(C10H15N) is usually found in white or yellowish crystalline powder. It is a strong addictive drug that affects nervous system and causes hallucination. 




History of Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine was first synthesised in1893 by Japanese chemist Nagai Nagayoshi and the production started to develop in1919. The wide use of Methamphetamine started in World War II to keep soldiers awake. High doses were given to Japanese Kamikaze pilots before their suicide missions. Methamphetamine was also used in German army extensively to improve the performance of soldiers.

After the war, methamphetamine became available to the Japanese public. It was used by college students, truck drivers and athletes as a non-medical stimulant and started to spread to the rest of the world.

In 1970, the USA government made methamphetamine illegal for most uses. The production and distribution of the drug was then controlled by gangs. In 1990s, Mexicans started to set up large laboratories for massive productions of methamphetamine. Small labs were also set up in apartments and kitchens. After that, the drug started to spread across USA and into Europe.

Presently, methamphetamine abuse occurs all over the world. The drug is illegal in most countries, except for the use in treatments of certain illness.



Chemistry

Methamphetamine (Contracted from N-Methyl-alpha-methylphenethylamine)

Formula: C10H15N                               Classification:               Enantiomers:  
                            

 -Phenethylamine              -Dextromethamphetamine


 -Amphetamine                  -Levomethamphetamine

Dextromethamphetamine has shorter and stronger effect on Cental Nervous System (CNS) than Levomethamphetamine. In methamphetamine, there is either pure(100%) dextromethamphetamine or equal parts(each 50%) of dextromethamphetamine and levomethamphetamine.

Pharmacology

In the CNS, methamphetamine inhibits or reverses the transportation of dopamine transporter (the carrier of dopamine - a chemical that mediates pleasure and improves memory). It also inhibits transporters of other chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine.

In low doses, methamphetamine can cause an elevated mood, increase alertness, concentration and energy on exhausted individuals. At high doses, it may induce psychosis and stereotypy.

Medical usage

Methamphetamine is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obesity.

References: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methamphetamine
http://www.drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/crystalmeth/history-of-methamphetamine.html