Stimulants
What are stimulants?
Stimulants are considered drugs that increase alertness, attention, and energy. The majorities of stimulants used on a college campus are illegal, or are taken without a prescription, which can be extremely dangerous due to the addictive components and potential for abuse. Stimulants may include Cocaine, Methamphetamines, Diet Pills, Nicotine, Caffeine, and Study Drugs.
Cocaine
What is cocaine?
Cocaine is obtained from the leaves of the cocoa plant and is a powerful and highly addictive illegal substance. It is a central nervous system stimulant and is most often used recreationally to achieve a euphoric sense of happiness and increased energy. Cocaine can be snorted, sniffed, injected, or smoked and the risks can increase depending on the way in which cocaine is administered. The term “crack cocaine” applies to a type of cocaine that has been processed from a powder “cocaine hydro chloride” to a “free base” form appropriate for smoking.
Methamphetamines
What is “Meth”?
Methamphetamines (methylamphetamine or desoxyephedrine), popularly known as “meth” or “ice”, is a psychostimulant drug that is very closely related to an amphetamine but has a longer lasting and potentially more toxic effect on the central nervous system. Methamphetamines have an extremely high potential for abuse and addiction.
What can be some of the effects of using a Stimulant?
Physical Effects
- Over-stimulated central nervous system
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Decreased production of neurotransmitters which can lead to feelings of depression
- Appetite suppression
Mental Effects
- Sense of increased confidence
- Feelings of increased outgoingness
- Eagerness to perform
- Excitement / Euphoria
Stimulants can also cause:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Psychosis
- Seizures
- Poor Nutrition