Pervitin

La pastilla del esfuerzo sin límites

Pervitin was a synthetic stimulant developed by the German pharmaceutical company Temmler in 1938. Its active ingredient was methamphetamine, a substance that increased alertness and stamina, suppressed sleep, hunger, and pain, and generated a false sense of confidence and euphoria.

In Nazi Germany, Pervitin was sold over the counter as a commercial product, with advertising recommending it for “housewives, students, and workers.” However, its most massive and impactful use was in the military: the Wehrmacht distributed millions of pills among its soldiers, especially during the Blitzkrieg campaigns of 1939 to 1941. The goal was to keep troops awake, active, and fearless during long stretches without rest.

Although Pervitin is mainly associated with the Germany army, its use was not exclusive to the Axis. Allied troops also resorted to amphetamines during the war to enhance combat performance.

Fabián Enériz Olague

Chapter 4

…—Here, take one —said Enériz, handing a small grayish pill to the driver and swallowing one himself.
“Ah! Pervitin, thank goodness… Thanks, Obergefreiter —replied Adler, gulping down the pill…

💊 Military use of stimulants in World War II

Country	Trade name	Active substance	Main military uses	Presentation
🇩🇪 Germany	Pervitin	Methamphetamine	Forced marches, aviation, tank crews, retreating troops	Pills / tubes
🇬🇧 United Kingdom	Benzedrine	Amphetamine	RAF pilots, commandos, long vigils	Inhalers / capsules
🇺🇸 USA	Benzedrine	Amphetamine	Bomber crews, Marines, infantry in the Pacific	Capsules / powder
🇯🇵 Japan	Philopon / Hiropon	Methamphetamine	Pilots (incl. kamikaze), assault troops	Ampoules / tablets

Over time, side effects —addiction, paranoia, physical collapses— became increasingly evident. Despite this, Pervitin continued to be used regularly by soldiers, pilots, and even high-ranking officers, with documented accounts confirming its widespread presence in the war.

Soldados de la Segunda Guerra Mundial tomando Pervitin en una tienda de campaña, sentados alrededor de una mesa con mapas, tazas, cajas y comprimidos.