Final answer:
Amphetamines, including methamphetamine and MDMA, are CNS stimulants from the phenethylamine class and have modified amino acid structures. They provide effects like increased alertness, cognitive enhancement, and euphoria, but can lead to dependence and neurotransmitter depletion with repeated use.
Step-by-step explanation:
Amphetamines are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants that belong to the phenethylamine class. These compounds, known for their psychoactive properties, are used both medically and recreationally.
The basic chemical class of amphetamine includes stimulants that are modifications of amino acids, where typical amino acid groups are replaced with other functional groups such as a benzene ring.
Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is a derivative of amphetamine with an added methyl group, enhancing its potency. The effects of amphetamines can range from increased alertness and cognitive enhancement to euphoria, depending on the dosage and frequency of use.
However, repeated use can lead to severe side effects like dependence, cognitive problems, and neurotransmitter depletion.
Moreover, compounds like MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine), commonly known as ecstasy or molly, are variant amphetamines with distinctive effects on serotonin release, leading to their characteristic empathogenic properties. However, they share similarities in chemical structure and function to the broader amphetamine class.