Stimulants are a class of drugs that consist of both legal and illegal substances. Stimulants excite the central nervous system, rapidly increasing the feel-good chemicals in the brain such as dopamine and disrupting normal communication between cells in the brain.

Types of Stimulants:

• Legal Stimulants, such as nicotine and caffeine
• Prescription Stimulants, such as Ritalin, Adderall, Dextroamphetamine
  • Most safe when used correctly as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Can still produce physical or psychological dependence.
• Illegal Stimulants, such as cocaine and methamphetamine

Cocaine

A small, powerful drug made from the leaves of the South American coca plant. It appears as a small, chunky, white solid. How is it used?

• Can be snorted while in powdered form
• Injected into the veins after dissolving in water
• Smoked

Methamphetamine

Similar chemical structure as amphetamines, but is in crystal form. It appears as glass fragments or shiny blue-white “rocks” of different sizes. How is it used?

• Orally
• Smoked
• Injected
• Snorted

Health Effects

Short-Term:

• Increased heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Elevated body temperature
• Increased respiratory rate
• Violent behavior
• Paranoia
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Insomnia

Long-Term:

• Dental problems
• Increased risk for contracting diseases
• Loss of sexual function
• Long-term heart problems
• Brain damage
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Anorexia
• Panic attacks
• Psychosis
• Delusions
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Coma
• Death

Treatment Options

• Detox
• Behavioral Therapies