StimulantsBy: Ginny Strother

What is a stimulant? Stimulants are substances that stimulate the

activity of the central nervous system. They increase or speed up mental and physical processes in the body. There are both legal and illegal stimulants.

It is commonly administered by taking tablets or capsules by mouth.

Abusers may smoke, snort or inject for effect.

When are they prescribed? Prescription stimulants were used historically to

treat asthma, obesity, neurological disorders. They are now prescribed for only a few health

conditions, including narcolepsy, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and short-term treatment of obesity.

Common stimulants include Ritalin, Adderall and Dexadrine.

Risks and BenefitsRisks

Depression Nervousness Irritability Loss of focus Decrease in Apetite

Benefits Short acting so they

don’t build up in system

Clear the body quickly Easy to get dosage

correct

Side Effects Like all medications the one taking the stimulant

runs a risk of becoming addicted. Withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, depression,

and disturbance of sleep patterns. Repeated use of some stimulants over a short

period can lead to feelings of hostility or paranoia. High doses of a stimulant may result in dangerously

high body temperature and an irregular heartbeat. Also the potential for cardiovascular failure or lethal

seizures. Opening the pathways of the respiratory system.

Can you take other medications while taking stimulants? One should talk to his or her doctor before taking

other medications. Stimulants should not be mixed. Decongestants should be avoided for these may

cause high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms.

Five Rights of Administration1. Right patient2. Right time3. Right dosage4. Right drug5. Right route of administration6. Right documentation

Interesting Facts Very commonly taken and abused by college

students in order to stay up all night. Most college students have used a stimulant

while in school.

Works Cited www.streetdrugs.org/stimulants www.drugfree.org www.nida.nih.gov www.steadyhealth.com www.healthandgoodness.com