They can reduce tiredness, increase endurance and help you stay awake Amphetamines are commonly known as 'speed'. Most amphetamines are produced in backyard laboratories and sold illegally. They are crudely made and often mixed with other substances, which means they can have very unpredictable effects. Illicit amphetamines are mainly used to give a 'high' or to help someone stay awake for long periods of time. Amphetamines were once generally available on prescription.
Amphetamines come in different forms and can be taken in different ways.
Most often amphetamines come as a white, yellow or brown powder which often has a strong smell. They can come as tablets, capsules, crystals or red liquid. An injectable form of amphetamine is called methamphetamine. It is a reddish-brown liquid sold in capsules. It is a more powerful form of the drug.