Pervitin was the trade name for a pharmaceutical drug containing methamphetamine hydrochloride, developed and sold in Germany beginning in 1937–1938 by the Temmler pharmaceutical company in Berlin. It was introduced as a legal stimulant intended to increase alertness and reduce fatigue, and marketed in both civilian and military contexts. TIME+2HISTORY+2
The drug emerged from research influenced by the use of amphetamines like Benzedrine at the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. Temmler’s chemist synthesized methamphetamine and obtained a patent in late 1937, with Pervitin entering the market in 1938. Initially it was sold without a prescription, advertised as a remedy for tiredness, mood improvement, and enhanced productivity. TIME
During the early phase of World War II, Pervitin was issued to soldiers of the German Wehrmacht. Military doctors and officers believed it could help combat fatigue and maintain high levels of performance over extended operations. Large quantities were distributed; historical sources note that tens of millions of tablets were issued during the invasions of Poland and France. These pills were colloquially known among troops under various nicknames reflecting their stimulant effects. HISTORY+1
Pervitin’s pharmacological effects included increased wakefulness, elevated confidence, reduced appetite and suppression of the need for sleep — characteristics typical of methamphetamine stimulants. Because of these effects, the drug was attractive not only to military personnel but also to some civilians, including workers and shift employees. Deutschlandmuseum
Medical authorities soon became aware of significant side effects, such as dependence, cardiovascular stress, and psychological disturbances. In 1940–1941, German military and public health officials limited its unrestricted use, requiring prescriptions and tightening controls, though illicit consumption continued. Wikipedia
After World War II, Pervitin continued in limited medical use in Germany and other countries for several decades before being phased out or restricted due to its potential for abuse. The methamphetamine in Pervitin is chemically the same active ingredient found in modern “crystal meth,” though historical formulations and patterns of use differed from contemporary illicit abuse. Deutschlandmuseum