Stimulants
About Stimulants
Stimulants are sometimes prescribed by doctors to treat conditions such as asthma, respiratory problems, obesity, attention deficit/hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD), and sleep disorders like narcolepsy.
This class of drug is often abused for its ability to produce euphoric effects or to counteract sluggish feelings induced by tranquilizers or alcohol.1
In the hands of teens, stimulants are taken to stay awake, increase alertness and concentration, boost energy, and get high. Sometimes teens go beyond
swallowing these pills. If they are prescribed drugs for ADHD, they can save up their pills during the week and share them with friends at weekend
parties. They then crush and snort them, or mix with alcohol. Teens also report saving and selling their own ADD drugs around exam time.
Examples of Stimulants
- Amphetamines and dextroamphetamine are stimulant drugs whose effects are similar to cocaine.2
- Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant drug that is part of a larger family of amphetamines.3
- Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant. It has effects similar to, but stronger than, caffeine and less potent than amphetamines.4
Check out a longer list of stimulant drugs  and their street names.
Signs and Symptoms
Do you suspect your teen is abusing stimulants? If so, there are a number of symptoms and side effects to look for:
- Physical side effects include dilated pupils; decreased appetite; loss of coordination; collapse; increased heart and respiratory rates; elevated
blood pressure;5 dizziness; tremors; headache; flushed skin; chest pain with palpitations; excessive sweating; vomiting; and abdominal cramps.6
- Psychological side effects include feelings of restlessness, anxiety, and delusions;7 hostility and aggression; and panic, suicidal, or homicidal
tendencies. Paranoia, often accompanied by auditory and visual hallucinations, may also occur.8
If you have observed any of the symptoms or side effects listed above, be mindful of the possibility of withdrawal or overdoses, as well.
Withdrawal symptoms associated with discontinuing stimulant use may include depression, disturbance of sleep patterns, fatigue, and apathy.9
Overdose or death is preceded by high fever, convulsions, and heart failure. Since death in these cases is partially due to strain on the heart, physical
exercise increases the risks of stimulant use.10
Interactions with Stimulants
Stimulant abuse often goes along with the use of other substances like alcohol, other prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and the use of illegal
substances like marijuana.
Did you know:
Alcohol. Teens who use alcohol and stimulants together are likely to drink more before feeling the effects of alcohol because of the stimulant effects.
The result? When the stimulant effect(s) wear off, the alcohol kicks in.11
Prescription drugs. Stimulants should only be used in combination with other medications under a physician's careful supervision.12
Over-the-counter drugs. There are dangers associated with mixing stimulants and over the counter drugs that contain decongestants. Blood pressure can
become dangerously high or lead to irregular heart rhythms.13
Street or Slang Terms for Stimulants
Ritz, rippers, dexies, and bennies are commonly used terms to refer to stimulants.
Check out a longer list of these drugs and their street names.
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