COUNCIL ON DRUG ABUSE

THE DRUG FILE

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS - STIMULANTS

Street Names

amphetamine (Adderall)
methylphenidate (Biphentin, Ritalin, Concerta)

Description
Stimulants are a type of prescription drug used in the treatment of ADD and ADHD. When individuals take prescription stimulant drugs outside of their prescribed usage, or in increasing dosage and frequency without talking to a doctor first, it becomes prescription drug abuse. Stimulants act on the brain by causing an increase in the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine. This increase in dopamine causes feelings of pleasure. Stimulants speed up activity in the brain and cause an increase in heart rate, blood pressure and metabolism. Stimulants also narrow blood vessels in the body, which causes a decrease in blood flow and oxygen to the heart.

Origin and medical usage
These drugs are made in the labs of pharmaceutical companies for a medical purpose. Stimulant drugs are often used for individuals with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Short-term effects
The short-term effects of stimulants may include sweating, dilated pupils, decreased appetite, sleeping problems, restlessness, aggressive behaviour, dizziness, tremors, increase in heart rate, increase in blood pressure, increased ability to concentrate, decreased need for sleep, paranoia and hallucinations.

Long-term effects
The long-term effects of stimulant use may include violent behaviour, weight loss, insomnia, paranoia, panic, exhaustion, heart attack, heart failure, seizures, hostility and psychosis.

Withdrawal
Withdrawal happens when a person stops using stimulants. Withdrawal from stimulant use may include symptoms such as depression, fatigue, insomnia and loss of appetite.

Legal status
Unlawful possession and obtaining multiple prescriptions are criminal offences. Possessions for the purpose of trafficking, import, export or production are all criminal offences.

Signs that a person might be using
Signs that a person may be abusing prescription stimulant drugs may include, but are not limited to, dilated pupils, changes in appearance or hygiene, trouble sleeping, decreased appetite, frequently needing to refill prescriptions, secretiveness, a rapid increase in the amount of medication being used, household prescriptions coming up short, red eyes, and failing to fulfil duties at school, work and home.