A stimulant is a drug that increases the activity of the sympathetic nervous system and produces a sense of euphoria or the feeling of being more awake. Stimulants can be used as recreational drugs or therapeutic drugs to increase alertness. They are also used and sometimes abused to boost endurance and productivity as well as to suppress appetite. Examples of common stimulants include caffeine, amphetamines, cocaine, Ritalin and ecstasy.
Amphetamines are synthetic stimulants. They were first discovered in the 1800s, but their medical uses were not recognized until the 1930s. Then they were used to counter low blood pressure, help asthmatics breathe more easily and decrease appetite. However, taking a lot, especially over a few days, can produce panic and paranoia. Injecting amphetamine is particularly dangerous. If injecting equipment is shared, there is the risk of infection including hepatitis and HIV.
More on [ Stimulant ]
Amphetamines
Behavior Medication :: Education

A Matter of Fact - Stimulants - Short fact sheet on the legal and illegal stimulants, their uses and adverse effects.
Stimulant Drugs for ADHD and ADD - General and specific discussion of several stimulants, including Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta.
Meta Description: [ Effects of ADHD stimulants on children are evaluated. ]
Stimulant Medication in Attention Deficit Disorder - Describes and compares methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamine (Dexedrine, Adderall), methamphetamine (Desoxyn), and pemoline (Cylert), including their mode of action and effectiveness in treating AD/HD and other conditions.
Meta Description: [ How stimulant medication is used to treat attention deficit disorder ]
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