The first amphetamine was originally developed in 1887 by Edeleano, a Romanian chemist working in Germany. It became available in the form of an inhaler for use as a nasal decongestant under the name Benzedrine in the 1930s. By 1937, amphetamines were available by prescription in tablet form and were used in the treatment of the sleeping disorders narcolepsy and ADHD.
What are “Bennies”?
Benzedrine, known widely as “bennies,” began as a celebrated wonder drug for a variety of health issues, but its story took a dark turn with associated fatalities. This drug, also called “bennies” in street vernacular, has etched itself into popular culture, appearing in Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar,” the R.E.M. song “What’s The Frequency, Kenneth?”, and the TV series “The Man In the High Castle.” Although it reached the height of its popularity from the 1930s to the 1960s, Benzedrine may be less known to newer generations. Before FDA regulation, it was commonly available and extensively used.
According to Brittanica;
Benzedrine was issued by the U.S. government to soldiers who fought in World War II to increase vigilance and energy. In the latter part of the 20th century, amphetamines became popular for a variety of purposes, including for the treatment of depression and to reduce appetite and encourage weight loss.
Benzedrine Through the Ages
- As the first brand name for amphetamine, Benzedrine was hugely popular for various ailments, especially fatigue.
- Its widespread use extended from the 1930s to the 1960s, after which it was classified as a Schedule II controlled substance for safety reasons.
- Despite the discontinuation of the Benzedrine brand, amphetamines continue to be used in medicine today, evident in brand names like Adderall and Vyvanse.
What is Benzedrine?
Benzedrine, initially a brand for amphetamine, was first synthesized in 1887 and patented in 1932 by Gordon Alles. Alles aimed to treat nasal congestion but ended up spearheading the amphetamine class of drugs. Partnering with Smith, Kline, and French (now GlaxoSmithKline), the drug was marketed as a wonder drug in an era predating prescription regulations, leading to over-the-counter availability.
Benzedrine’s diverse applications included:
- Aiding college students as a study aid in the 1930s.
- Maintaining alertness and focus for American soldiers during World War II.
- Serving as a diet and mood enhancer for housewives in the 1950s and 1960s.
- Fueling creativity and energy in artists during the 1960s Beatnik period.
Benzedrine Inhaler
Benzedrine inhalers, originally intended for treating nasal congestion, were misused for their stimulant effects. Users would dismantle these over-the-counter inhalers to extract the Benzedrine-soaked paper strip inside. They then dried this strip and ingested it orally, either by chewing or swallowing, to experience the drug’s potent stimulant effects. This method of abuse allowed for consuming higher doses of Benzedrine than intended, leading to immediate and strong psychoactive experiences. Jack Kerouac, for example, used Benzedrine while writing “On The Road.” Smith, Kline, and French sold over 10 million inhalers before their FDA ban in 1959.
Benzedrine Sulfate
Benzedrine pills were prevalent in World War II, keeping soldiers awake and boosting morale. Their civilian use exploded, with sales reaching 8 billion pills annually by 1962. Prescribed often to women with “rainbow pills” for mood and weight loss, Benzedrine pills are now controlled substances.
Why Did Benzedrine Use Decrease?
The early 1960s saw a decline in Benzedrine use as its side effects, like psychosis, became apparent, and addiction concerns grew. A 1968 Life magazine exposé linked its use to weight loss and several deaths.
The Controlled Substances Act of 1971 was a landmark in this journey, reclassifying Benzedrine as a Schedule II drug, thus marking the end of an era of its widespread and unregulated use.
Understanding ‘Bennies’ Today
- “Bennies” as a term for Benzedrine symbolizes its widespread use and cultural significance.
- Benzedrine, a stimulant, increased alertness and energy but led to addiction and regulation.
- Originally used for various conditions, Benzedrine’s legacy continues in medications treating ADHD and narcolepsy.
- Adderall and other amphetamines are modern equivalents, reflecting Benzedrine’s impact on pharmaceutical development.
The term “bennies” in drug slang captures the recreational use and cultural influence of amphetamines.
Do Bennies still exist?
The Benzedrine brand may have faded from the pharmaceutical market, but its core component, amphetamine, remains in circulation as a legal, albeit highly regulated, medication. Benzedrine’s role as the first medical amphetamine has been foundational in the development of several related drugs available today. These include well-known names such as:
Moreover, the influence of Benzedrine’s chemical composition is seen beyond prescription medicine, extending into the realm of street drugs. A notable example is crystal meth, a substance with a high potential for addiction, which shares a chemical lineage with Benzedrine.
What Is Benzedrine Used For Today?
Although Benzedrine itself is rarely used today, the active drug in Benzedrine, amphetamine, and some related chemicals are still used. They remain Schedule II controlled substances. Conditions they treat include:
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Binge eating disorder
- Narcolepsy
Amphetamine Addiction Treatment at Still Detox in Boca Raton, Florida
While the term “benny addict” has become a relic of the past, the reality of amphetamine abuse remains prevalent. Whether you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction to prescription amphetamines like Adderall, Dexedrine, or Vyvanse, Still Detox in Boca Raton, Florida, is equipped to help. Our facility offers specialized treatment programs for addiction to both prescription drugs and illicit amphetamines. We provide a comprehensive approach to support long-term recovery and sobriety.
To learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs in Boca Raton and how we can assist in the journey to recovery, please reach out to Still Detox. Our team is dedicated to providing the necessary care and support for overcoming addiction and embarking on a path to a healthier, substance-free life.
Conclusion: Is Adderall a Benzedrine?
Both Adderall and Benzedrine share amphetamine as a common ingredient and a history of abuse and addiction. While not identical, they both belong to the realm of stimulant pharmaceuticals. Benzedrine, developed in the late 1930s, had various uses but was widely abused and associated with addiction. Adderall, a modern prescription medication for conditions like ADHD, also carries a risk of abuse and addiction due to its stimulant properties. In summary, these medications, though different in formulation, share the capacity to enhance alertness and focus, as well as a history of misuse and addiction.
You Might Be Interested In:
What is Vyvanse? Comparison vs Adderall
Is Adderall Really the Same as Meth?
