amphetamines /amfet″əmēnz/ , a group of nervous system stimulants, including amphetamine and its chemical congeners dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine, that are subject to abuse because of their ability to produce wakefulness, euphoria, and weight loss. Abuse leads to compulsive behavior, paranoia, hallucinations, and suicidal tendencies. Amphetamines have many street names, such as black beauties, lid poppers, pep pills, speed (an injectable form), and ice (a crystalline form of methamphetamine that is smoked). See also crack, dextroamphetamine sulfate, methamphetamine hydrochloride.
