Amines and Stimulants –

Amines are obtained by replacing one or more ammonia hydrogens (NH3) with other organic groups. They have the element Nitrogen in their general formula, and there are many stimulants that are generic amine formulas, such as: Caffeine, Amphetamine, Cocaine and Crack.

• Amphetamines belong to this class of compounds, they have the property of elevating the mood of those who ingest them due to the increase in the activity of the nervous system, and also provide a decrease in the feeling of fatigue and reduced appetite. Due to these attributes, it is used as a stimulant, but its use is regulated and is only sold as a prescription, as it causes dependence.

• An amine that has the property of being a stimulant that is widely used in our daily lives is caffeine, present in coffee, guarana powder and even in some soft drinks.

• Another substance that has the amine group in its structure is cocaine, this drug comes from the hydrochloride and has a great stimulating power, the substance is extracted from a bush most easily found on the slopes of the Andes. The stimulus caused by its use is characterized by increased motor activity, euphoria, talkativeness followed by intense depression. Thus, its use becomes increasingly compulsive, and progresses from occasional use to dependence in increasing doses, which can lead to death from overdose.

• Mixing hydrochloride with sodium bicarbonate gave rise to a drug cheaper than cocaine: crack. This mixture, when heated, releases cocaine vapors that are quickly absorbed by the lungs, reaching the brain in approximately 15 seconds. Its use leads to more intense consequences than in the case of hydrochloride, reaching zero recovery according to scholars, that is, it is almost impossible for a crack user to recover.

Don’t stop now… There’s more after the advertising 😉

By Líria Alves
Graduated in Chemistry