Health ministry of republic of moldova the university of medicine and pharmacy nicolae testemiţanu

Stimulants 

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Stimulants are some of the most widely prescribed drugs today. A 
stimulant is any drug that stimulates the central nervous system. Adde-
rall, a collection of amphetamine salts, is one of the most prescribed 
pharmaceuticals in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disor-
der (ADHD). Stimulants can be addictive, and patients with a history of 
drug abuse are typically monitored closely or even barred from use and 
given an alternative. Discontinuing treatment without tapering the dose 
can cause psychological withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and drug 
craving. Stimulants are not physiologically addictive. 
Common stimulants: 
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Caffeine, typical stimulant found in many; 
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Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), atypical stimulant; 
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Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin), D-isomer of methylphenidate; 
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Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), D-Amphetamine-based stimulant; 
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Dextroamphetamine & levoamphetamine (Adderall), D, l-Amphe-
tamine salt mix; 
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Methamphetamine (Desoxyn), D-Methamphetamine-based stimulant; 
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Modafinil (Provigil).
Stimulants, sometimes referred to as "uppers", reverse the effects 
of fatigue on both mental and physical tasks. Two commonly used sti-
mulants are nicotine, which is found in tobacco products, and caffeine, 
an active ingredient in coffee, tea, some soft drinks, and many non-pres-
cription medicines. Used in moderation, these substances tend to relieve 
malaise and increase alertness. Although the use of these products has 
been an accepted part of U.S. culture, the recognition of their adverse ef-
fects has resulted in a proliferation of caffeine-free products and efforts 
to discourage cigarette smoking.
Therapeutic levels of stimulants can produce exhilaration, extended 
wakefulness, and loss of appetite. These effects are greatly intensified 
when large doses of stimulants are taken. Physical side effects, including 
dizziness, tremor, headache, flushed skin, chest pain with palpitations, 
excessive sweating, vomiting, and abdominal cramps, may occur as a 
result of taking too large a dose at one time or taking large doses over an 
extended period of time.
Psychological effects include agitation, hostility, panic, aggression, 
and suicidal or homicidal tendencies. Paranoia, sometimes accompanied 
by both auditory and visual hallucinations, may also occur. Overdose is 
often associated with high fever, convulsions, and cardiovascular collapse. 

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Because accidental death is partially due to the effects of stimulants on the 
body's cardiovascular and temperature-regulating systems, physical 
exertion increases the hazards of stimulant use.