Speed, Ecstasy, Ritalin: The Science of Amphetamines

by Leslie L. Iversen

Amphetamines have had a relatively short, though chequered history. From their use in wartime, their abuse by the beat generation, up to the popularity of Ecstasy in the late 20th century, many have found amphetamines an enjoyable, though unpredictable, stimulant. More than that though, amphetamine-based treatments have been found to have beneficial effects for those suffering from attention deficit disorders, and are now widely prescribed in the US and elsewhere as a treatment for children and adults.

What is the truth behind these medical claims? What are the real effects of stimulants like Ecstasy? Just how harmful are amphetamines?

In this book, a leading authority on psychoactive drugs explores the uses and abuses of amphetamines. Starting with a look at the origins of amphetamines, their use in wartime, their use by poets, musicians - even a President of the US, it presents a fascinating and accessible account of amphetamine use. It examines the evidence for the claims that drugs like Ecstasy kill, and considers the widespread use of amphetamines for ADHD, presenting a thorough account based on science and fact, rather than dogma.

Genres: Drugs, Science, Nonfiction

232 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Leslie Lars Iversen FRS is a British pharmacologist, known for his work on the neurochemistry of synaptic transmitters

Iversen was Director of the MRC Neurochemical Pharmacology Unit, in Cambridge from 1971 to 1982, then Director of the Merck, Sharp & Dohme Neuroscience Research Centre from 1982 to 1995. He became Visiting Professor of Pharmacology, at the University of Oxford in 1995.

He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1980, and gave the Society's Ferrier Lecture in 1988.

Reviews

[Natalie S. · Rating 3 out of 5]

A relatively comprehensive text on amphetamines that mainly focuses on neuroscience, but also discusses cultural elements of drug use. The most interesting chapter (and most irrelevant to my research) is the chapter on ecstasy. Coalitions of psychiatrists are still lobbying for ecstasy to be reconsidered as a Schedule II (rather than Schedule I) drug, so it can be used for psychotherapy. The evidence is compelling and their are very few risks (you're more likely to die from taking aspirin). But because the policymakers who create drug laws are probably some of the least informed Americans about drugs, it's classified as a substance with no medical use and cannot be used in research.

[Michael Burnam-Fink · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid, well-research, and very readable review of the history of amphetamines from a pharmacological perspective. Iverson covers their differences in structure and mechanisms of action, before delving into their use as diet drugs, anti-depressants, for ADHD, enhancement in sport, and illegal activity. Each of the chapters is rather light, a summary of a complex topic rather than the final word, but there are plenty of references to primary sources for the scholar who wants to go deeper.

[Bonnom · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book gives a great overview of how amphetamine has been used throughout history and Iversen gives a clear impression of the real risks associated with different ways of using amphetamine. Iversen supports his arguments with plenty of academic sources.

This book is a must read for people that want to know about the history, the medical and recreational uses, and all the risks associated with the use of amphetamine.