Benzedrine was a brand name for amphetamine, a powerful central nervous system stimulant first introduced in the 1930s. It was chemically known as amphetamine sulfate. It was developed to increase alertness, concentration, and energy levels. Amphetamine belongs to a class of synthetic drugs known as sympathomimetic amines, which mimic the actions of adrenaline.
The Original Benzedrine Inhaler
Benzedrine was first marketed over-the-counter as a nasal decongestant inhaler in 1933. The inhaler contained a cotton strip soaked with amphetamine oil, not a pressurized canister. While intended for nasal passage clearing, users soon discovered the stimulant effects of the amphetamine within.
Individuals commonly broke open the inhaler to extract the amphetamine-soaked strip. This strip could then be swallowed, sometimes with coffee or alcohol, smoked, or injected. Its easy accessibility without requiring a prescription led to early adoption for recreational and performance-enhancing purposes, notably among jazz musicians in the 1930s, contributing to its initial rise in misuse.
Medical and Military Applications
Beyond the over-the-counter inhaler, Benzedrine was also produced in tablet form, known as Benzedrine Sulfate tablets, introduced in 1937. These tablets were prescribed for conditions including narcolepsy, depression, and chronic fatigue. It also served as an appetite suppressant, leading to its use for obesity.
During World War II, Benzedrine became a staple in military operations for both Allied and Axis forces. Soldiers were issued these “go-pills” to combat fatigue, maintain alertness during extended missions, and boost morale. For example, General Dwight D. Eisenhower approved half a million Benzedrine tablets for American troops during the 1942 landing in North Africa. The British Royal Air Force also sanctioned its use to enhance pilot performance.
Physiological and Psychological Effects
Amphetamine, the active ingredient in Benzedrine, primarily affects the brain by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. It does this by inhibiting their reuptake from the synaptic cleft and enhancing their release from storage sites within neurons.
This surge in dopamine and norepinephrine leads to stimulant effects such as heightened alertness, increased energy, and improved focus. Users often reported euphoria and an elevated sense of confidence. However, these effects often came with adverse reactions like insomnia, anxiety, and paranoia. Physical symptoms included increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and decreased appetite. Prolonged or high-dose use carried a substantial risk of psychological dependence and addiction, leading to long-lasting changes in brain chemistry.
Modern Status and Legacy
The widespread misuse and addiction associated with Benzedrine eventually led to significant regulatory changes. In the United States, amphetamine was classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. This classification indicates a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. The brand name “Benzedrine” is no longer used for prescription medications.
Despite the discontinuation of the Benzedrine brand, its active ingredient, amphetamine, continues to be a component of modern prescription drugs. Amphetamine-based medications are currently prescribed for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Examples include mixed amphetamine salts, commonly known by brand names like Adderall, which contain dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine. This demonstrates Benzedrine’s enduring legacy through its chemical relatives.