Understanding Psychology (10th Ed)

162 Chapter 
5 
States of Consciousness
suddenly stop drinking coffee may experience headaches or depression. Many peo-
ple who drink large amounts of coffee on weekdays have headaches on weekends 
because of the sudden drop in the amount of caffeine they are consuming (Clayton 
& Lundberg-Love, 2009; Hammond & Gold, 2008; Kendler, Myers, & Gardner, 2006). 
Nicotine , found in cigarettes, is another common stimulant. The soothing effects 
of nicotine help explain why cigarette smoking is addictive. Smokers develop a 
dependence on nicotine, and those who suddenly stop smoking develop a strong 
craving for the drug. This is not surprising: Nicotine activates neural mechanisms 
similar to those activated by cocaine, which, as we see next, is also highly addictive 
(Haberstick et al., 2007; Ray et al., 2008).

AMPHETAMINES

Amphetamines such as dexedrine and benzedrine, popularly known as speed, are 
strong stimulants. In small quantities, amphetamines—which stimulate the central 
nervous system—bring about a sense of energy and alertness, talkativeness, height-
ened confi dence, and a mood “high.” They increase concentration and reduce fatigue. 
Amphetamines also cause a loss of appetite, increased anxiety, and irritability. When 
Drugs
Street Name
Eff ects
Withdrawal Symptoms
Adverse/Overdose
Reactions
Stimulants
Amphetamines
Benzedrine
Dexedrine
Cocaine
Speed
Speed
Coke, blow, snow, 
lady, crack
Increased confi dence, 
mood elevation, sense of 
energy and alertness, 
decreased appetite, 
anxiety, irritability, 
insomnia, transient 
drowsiness, delayed 
orgasm
Apathy, general fatigue, 
prolonged sleep, 
depression, disorientation, 
suicidal thoughts, agitated 
motor activity, irritability, 
bizarre dreams
Elevated blood pressure, 
increase in body 
temperature, face picking, 
suspiciousness, bizarre 
and repetitious behavior, 
vivid hallucinations, 
convulsions, possible 
death