Stimulants
Physical and Psychological Effects
Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine and Adderall) and Methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) are stimulants that have chemical structures similar to neurotransmitters in the brain, such as norepinephrine and dopamine that our bodies produce naturally. Stimulants increase alertness, attention and energy. When taken as directed under the care of a physician, these drugs can be effective medications for the treatment of ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), narcolepsy, obesity, and depression that has not responded to other treatment methods.
Since these drugs are a Schedule II drug that requires controls on its manufacture, distribution and prescription, they are monitored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Individual states can also impose further restrictions such as limiting the amount of pills per prescription or not allowing refills.
Stimulant Abuse
Stimulants are abused for the following reasons: appetite suppression, wakefulness, increased focus/attentiveness, increased energy and euphoria. Stimulants can be taken orally, crushed, snorted, and on occasion are dissolved in water to be injected. This can cause problems because some of the tablet does not dissolve and can block small blood vessels. There is also a danger of mixing over-the counter (OTC) cold medicines that contain decongestants with stimulants as it may cause a dangerous elevation in blood pressure or lead to irregular heart rhythms.
According to the DEA, the abuse of Ritalin has increased in children ages 10-14 years old in the past 10 years. It has also doubled as a recreational drug among high school seniors. Many college students abuse stimulants, such as Ritalin, for late-night studying and appetite suppression. Some street names for Ritalin are "Kiddee Cocaine", "Vitamin R", "R Ball", "Kibbles and bits", "Pineapple", and "West Coast."
Physical Risk
- Permanent lung tissue damage from injecting crushed medication
- Deterioration of nasal cartilage and nasal tissues from snorting
- Toxic overdose reactions
- Seizures
- Iregular heartbeat, stroke, heart arrhythmia
- Convulsions
- Circulation problems
- Respiratory complications
- HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other blood-borne viruses in IV users
- Weight loss
Psychological Risks
- Psychotic episodes
- Severe psychological dependency
- Severe depression upon withdrawal
- Sleep disturbances
Legal Risks
As with the illegal use/sale of any controlled substance, there are legal ramifications including incarceration.
