The Love of Speed: An Analysis of the Enduring Attraction of Amphetamine Sulphate for British Youth

Abstract

Amphetamine sulphate has been a popular drug choice for British youth since the 1960s. The reasons for its persistence are explored in this paper, highlighting the alluring nature of its psychoactive effects that can influence social development in the adolescent years. The potential hazards in using the drug are identified and an attempt made to anticipate future trends. The 1960s saw the start of a strong association with music that continues today, and the rave scene has adopted Ecstasy, an amphetamine-type stimulant, as its drug of choice, yet the use of amphetamine sulphate shows no sign of decreasing. Recent international developments in production and trafficking suggest that this is a growing market. The idea that we are faced with an epidemic that could burn itself out is challenged. Support for these arguments derives from several research projects on drug misuse conducted in the northwest of England and the accounts of respondents are used to illustrate key points.