It became increasingly difficult for drug abusers to get amphetamines, although there was still a great demand for them. At that time, some drug companies produced high dose non-prescription stimulants that looked almost exactly like the prescription products. It is available in the US without prescription in 25 mg and 50 mg tablets or capsules for the treatment of asthma. Established brands are usually available in up to a two-week supply. Large supplies of inexpensive tablets or capsules may encourage abusers to take large doses.
Caffeine is the familiar active ingredient in coffee, tea, and many soft drinks.
It is a synthetic stimulant that closely resembles ephedrine. There are four possible forms of ephedrine, one of which is pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine is longer-acting than ephedrine, which makes it preferable as a nasal decongestant. It also raises blood pressure and heart rates, especially when more than the recommended dose is taken. It was an effective nasal decongestant.