Stimulants
Stimulants
Stimulants (pronounced stim-yuh-luhnts), also known as psychostimulants or uppers, are a class of substances that increase certain types of activity in the body. The term is derived from the Latin word "stimulare", meaning "to rouse or excite".
Definition
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity of the central nervous system and the body, leading to increased alertness, wakefulness, endurance, productivity, and motivation, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and decreased appetite. They are used therapeutically to treat a variety of conditions, including ADHD, narcolepsy, and depression.
Types of Stimulants
There are several types of stimulants, including:
- Amphetamines: A group of powerful stimulants that include drugs like Adderall and methamphetamine.
- Caffeine: A mild stimulant found in coffee, tea, and other beverages.
- Cocaine: A powerful stimulant derived from the coca plant.
- Nicotine: A stimulant found in tobacco products.
- Methylphenidate: A stimulant commonly used to treat ADHD, known by the brand name Ritalin.
Effects of Stimulants
Stimulants work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are involved in transmitting signals between brain cells, and increasing their levels can enhance mood and increase alertness and energy.
However, stimulants can also have negative effects, including insomnia, anxiety, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and in severe cases, heart failure or stroke. Long-term use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stimulants
- Wikipedia's article - Stimulants
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