Illicit stimulants

Illicit stimulants include:

• amfetamines and their derivatives
  • metamfetamine (methamphetamine)—the crystalline form of metamfetamine is most commonly known as ‘ice’; other street names include ‘speed’, ‘crank’, ‘glass’ or ‘meth’
  • methylenedioxymetamfetamine (methylenedioxymethamphetamine, MDMA)—commonly known as ‘ecstasy’, or in the crystalline or powder form known as ‘Molly’
  • paramethoxyamfetamine (paramethoxyamphetamine, PMA) and paramethoxymetamfetamine (paramethoxymethamphetamine, PMMA)—also known as ‘death’ and ‘Dr Death’
• cocaine
• clenbuterol
• novel stimulant drugs (eg cathinones)
• synthetic cannabinoid-receptor agonists (eg ‘spice’)
• novel hallucinogenic drugs (eg ‘NBOMe’).

Amfetamines and their derivatives are the most common illicit stimulants. They can be snorted, injected or ingested. Both the purity of the drug and the presence of adulterants contribute to toxicity.

MDMA and related compounds were first popularised at rave parties and dance events in the 1980s; their use has become more widespread with similar distribution to other substance use. They produce euphoria, increased sensory awareness, and feelings of empathy, closeness and communion. They are available as oral tablets or capsules, and a crystalline or powder formulation that is snorted or injected.

PMA and PMMA can cause fatal hyperthermia and intracranial haemorrhage. They have been found to be contaminants of MDMA.