The most used drug substance today: Who invented the evil methamphetamine?

It is addictive even in very small amounts and in short-term use, and in repeated use, the individual will need higher doses with the pharmacological mechanisms that occur due to drug use.

Methamphetamine and the drug group it is a member of are used in a controlled manner in most countries due to the strong side effects they cause, and penalties are imposed in case of abuse.

Amphetamine (contracted from alpha-methylphenethylamine) is a strong central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that is used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Amphetamine was discovered in 1887 and exists as two enantiomers: levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine.

Amphetamine and methamphetamine are regulated by the DEA (United States Drug Enforcement Administration).

Why Was Methamphetamine Made?

Amphetamine (or alpha-methyl-phenethylamine) derivative drugs are chemicals that have stimulant effects on the central nervous system and are used for pharmacological purposes. Amphetamines were first synthesized in 1887 as the methyl analog of phenethylamine, a mammalian neurotransmitter, by the Romanian chemist Lazăr Edeleanu, who was working on the treatment of asthma at the University of Berlin. It is an effective drug category, especially in attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Lazăr Edeleanu (1 September 1861, Bucharest – 7 April 1941) was a Romanian chemist of Jewish origin. He is known for being the first chemist to synthesize amphetamine at the University of Berlin and for inventing the modern method of refining crude oil.

It is prescribed as Adderall, Concerta, Dexedrine, Focalin, Metadate, Methylin, and Ritalin. It is also used in the treatment of Parkinson's because it plays a role in the release of dopamine. Individuals who work at an intense pace may also prefer amphetamines in order to keep their minds open. Due to its high stimulant effects, it causes sleep problems and schizophrenia-like psychoses, and it is abused and used illegally as a recreational drug.

Chemical Structure

Methamphetamine is the N-methylated version of amphetamine and was first marketed as a decongestant (with the function to open channels in nasal congestion). First synthesized in Japan from the precursor chemical ephedrine by Nagayoshi Nagai in 1893, methamphetamine was used by soldiers during the war as an energy pill to prevent fatigue. However, after the war, abuse reached epidemic proportions in a short time, especially in Europe. Today, there is only Desoxyn with methamphetamine active ingredient for treatment and this is used in the treatment of ADHD.

Nagai Nagayoshi (August 8, 1844 – February 10, 1929) was a Japanese organic chemist and pharmacologist, best known for his study of ephedrine.

Methamphetamine, used as a drug, is usually white, pink, or brown; The other form, known as crystal meth, is produced in illegal labs as white or light blue crystals (especially popularized after Breaking Bad). The active ingredient in the production is ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, which has stimulant properties. It has used by snorting or inhaling in the form of steam, and different effects occur in various forms of use. When used in vapor form or injected, it is similar to snorting cocaine; It creates a state (rush) characterized by the acceleration of the heart rhythm, the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, and the sudden increase in blood pressure. Although the injection causes a stronger euphoric effect, its effect is short-lived.

Hazards

Long-term use of high doses of methamphetamine has serious adverse effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular systems. Over time, these side effects may decrease body resistance and predispose to various diseases and infections. Short-term side effects can be exemplified as a false good mood and an energetic mood. The individual uses his body beyond its capacity without realizing this falsehood. In addition, weight loss, hyperactivity, nausea, aggression, and sleep problems are among the common side effects.

Methamphetamine causes irreversible and serious side effects in long-term use. For example, cracks in the brain vessels as a result of increased blood pressure and heart rhythm are associated with cerebral hemorrhage, Alzheimer's-like brain damage, and stroke; irregular heartbeat also results in heart attacks and death as a result. At the same time, the damages that occur depending on the way of use cause dysfunctions in the lungs, liver, and kidneys.