Amphetamines are categorized as which type of substance?

Amphetamines are categorized as stimulants because they primarily enhance the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, most notably dopamine and norepinephrine. This increased activity leads to heightened alertness, energy, and overall stimulation of the central nervous system. Stimulants can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and feelings of euphoria, which are characteristic effects of amphetamines.

In contrast, depressants like alcohol and benzodiazepines slow down the central nervous system, leading to sedative effects. Hallucinogens, such as LSD and psilocybin, alter perceptions and can cause visual or auditory hallucinations, which is different from the effects of amphetamines. Narcotics, typically associated with opioids like morphine and heroin, are primarily pain relievers that induce sedation and euphoria, differing significantly in their action in comparison to stimulant substances.