M.o.M. - Amphetamine

Amphetamine or α-methylphenethylamine is a psychostimulant first synthesized in 1887 by Romanian chemist, Lazăr Edeleanu. However, it was not until 1927 that chemist Gordon Alles synthesized and tested “β-phenylisopropylamine” on animals and then himself in the search of an analog of ephedrine with an improved pharmacological profile. Following a 50 mg injection, Alles described a “feeling of well-being”. Following additional research, amphetamine was marketed and used as a decongestant, general stimulant, antidepressant, analgesic, weightless drug and more. Like cocaine and methylphenidate, amphetamine elevates levels of monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain, most notably dopamine and norepinephrine. However, unlike the former which block reuptake, amphetamine does so by causing the release of these neurotransmitters. Amphetamine (and closely related compounds) remain in popular use today including in Adderall.