amphetamine

[ am-fet-uh-meen, -min ]
/ æmˈfɛt əˌmin, -mɪn /

noun Pharmacology.

a racemic drug, C9H13N, that stimulates the central nervous system: used chiefly to lift the mood in depressive states and to control the appetite in cases of obesity.

Origin of amphetamine

First recorded in 1935–40; a(lpha) + m(ethyl) + ph(enyl) + et(hyl) + amine

Example sentences from the Web for amphetamine

British Dictionary definitions for amphetamine

amphetamine
/ (æmˈfɛtəˌmiːn, -mɪn) /

noun

a synthetic colourless volatile liquid used medicinally as the white crystalline sulphate, mainly for its stimulant action on the central nervous system, although it also stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. It can have unpleasant or dangerous side effects and drug dependence can occur; 1-phenyl-2-aminopropane. Formula: C 6 H 5 CH 2 CH(NH 2)CH 3

Word Origin for amphetamine

C20: from a ( lpha) + m ( ethyl) + ph ( enyl) + et ( hyl) + -amine

Medical definitions for amphetamine

amphetamine
[ ăm-fĕtə-mēn′, -mĭn ]

n.

A colorless, volatile liquid used as a central nervous system stimulant in the treatment of certain neurological conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy, and abused as a stimulant.
A chemical derivative of amphetamine, such as dextroamphetamine sulfate.

Scientific definitions for amphetamine

amphetamine
[ ăm-fĕtə-mēn′ ]

Any of a group of drugs that stimulate the central nervous system, resulting in elevated blood pressure, heart rate, and other metabolic functions. Amphetamines are used in the treatment of certain neurological conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. The drugs are highly addictive and are sometimes abused.

Cultural definitions for amphetamine

amphetamine

A drug that stimulates the central nervous system and is used to treat certain conditions, such as attention deficit disorder, depression, and narcolepsy.