What are stimulants?

Amphetamines are psychostimulant drugs of the phenethylamine class that are known to produce increased wakefulness and focus in association with decreased fatigue and appetite.

Amphetamine is chemically related to methamphetamine and lisdexamfetamine, a class of potent prescription drugs that cause euphoria by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Part of this class are prescription CNS drugs that are typically used to treat certain disorders such as ADHD.

It can also be used in treating symptoms from some traumatic brain injuries (TBI), the effects of narcolepsy, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), postural orthostatic and tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Initially, amphetamines were more popularly used to diminish appetite and to control weight.

The most common brand names for the medication amphetamine include: Adderall, Dexedrine, Dextrostat, Desoxyn, ProCentra, Vyvanse and Benzedrine.

This drug can also be used as a performance enhancer and is used recreationally. People who use amphetamines recreationally have distinguished street names for the drug such as “speed”.

Ritalin, Metadate, Methylin or Concerta (MPH) are a group of methylphenidate psychostimulant drugs that have been approved to treat certain disorders such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) narcolepsy, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome.

This drug can also be used as a performance enhancer and is used recreationally. People who use amphetamines recreationally have distinguished street names for the drug such as “speed.”

One of the most widely used stimulants in the United States is caffeine. It can be found in common foods or drinks such as coffee, chocolate, tea, soft drinks and cocoa. Although there are some positive side effects such as increased energy and alertness, too much can lead to levels of anxiety or insomnia.

One of the most well known national stimulants is cocaine. Cocaine is a psychoactive drug that is made from leaves of the coca tree. Cocaine was first introduced as a prescription stimulant that was used to treat a person for a psychological disorder. The effects of cocaine were later discovered to potentially cause abuse, overdose or addiction.

Unfortunately, the average age for initial use of cocaine is getting lower. The use of cocaine, depending on the severity, can cause paranoia, mood swings, high blood pressure, panic attacks, tachycardia, cognitive impairment, paranoia, or other intense changes in personality. Cocaine can also lead to other mental health problems such as aggression, compulsion, and criminal and/or erratic behaviors.

Even with short term use, many people experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using crack. The symptoms are more pronounced in individuals who have been using crack for a long time and in high doses.

People addicted to crack are unable to improve without medical treatment at a treatment center. The physical and psychological dependence of crack is intense and most find it difficult to get out of the addictive cycle. The withdrawal symptoms include intense cravings, irritability, hunger, anxiety and paranoia. These feelings prevent people from ceasing crack use.

Nicotine is considered one of the top three national most used stimulants in the world, despite not having any real medical benefits. You do not need a prescription and can get it over the counter if you are old enough.

The primary ingredient in vapes and e-cigarettes is nicotine. When a person vapes, it can easily lead to addiction and the effects can lead to poor health, due to the high levels of the stimulant.

Methamphetamine addiction is a national significant problem making a major impact on public health in the United States. The consequences and complications of methamphetamine addiction are severe and wide ranging. The toll methamphetamine addiction has on an individual’s health can be devastating.

Methamphetamine has a substantial influence on cardiovascular health, risk of pulmonary disease, oral health, and infection in both chronic and acute abuse.

Addiction to methamphetamine has profound influence on cognitive functioning and emotional stability. Long term impairment from meth dependence can persist even after people are able to be abstinent, and meth is extremely addictive. Once addicted it can be difficult to discontinue use without professional help. Treatment and rehab is critical to intervene in the cycle of relapse and addiction.