Amphetamine, also known by many street names, is a stimulant drug that can be injected, snorted, smoked, or taken orally in pill form. It is classified as an "upper" that causes both short term effects like increased heart rate and energy, as well as long term risks like heart and brain damage. While amphetamine was first produced in 1887 and found medical uses, it is now illegal without a prescription due to its high potential for abuse and health risks.