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Comment by logifail | Hacker News Reader

> The process is stupid-simple and takes a matter of hours, any idiot could do it, and the difference it makes in effects (racemic vs optically-pure D-Amphetamine vs D-Methamphetamine) is obscene

(My organic chemistry is very rusty, and my knowledge of amphetamines is non-existant.)

I'm assuming from what you wrote that the D- enantiomer is one you want. What does the L- enantiomer do, if anything?

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The L-enantiomer is actually readily available for purchase over-the-counter.

Vicks Vapor rub/inhalers and other decongestants use L-methamphetamine. The D-enantiomer causes CNS stimulation. The L-enantiomer causes only PNS (Peripheral Nervous System) stimulation, so it produces no euphoria or enjoyable effects.

Only unpleasant side effects, like tachycardia and anxiety, etc.

This is why racemic amphetamine/methamphetamine is so (comparatively) unpleasant, and the pure D-enantiomer is superior and "cleaner" feeling.

Racemic amphetamines have a much higher chance of inducing psychosis.

FWIW I find the Vicks Vapor rub fumes enjoyable and euphoria inducing. Edit: I think it's the eucalyptus oil that I am reacting to.

It's also well known as a miracle cure to various demographics of grandmas.

The active ingredients in Vicks Vapo Rub are just:

Camphor

Eucalyptus oil

Menthol

Perhaps you're thinking of a different Vicks product?

Ah it's just the inhalers then, my mistake

Another interesting one found in inhalers is Propylhexedrine, from Benzedrex inhalers

Is this the difference between Adderall and Dexedrine?

Yeah, Adderall is "Mixed-isomer amphetamine salt", it's a "proprietary" blend of 80/20 dextro/levo.

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