The notion that stimulants have a negative impact on the individual user is one that both media and governments have overemphasized. Stimulants tend to have behavioral and physiological effects on individual users. The behavioral effects are usually characterized by psychomotor agitation, increased muscle tone and tension, and sleep disturbances. These effects have been described as producing generalized euphoria, or a state of well-being. Moreover, stimulants can induce a state of alertness and arousal. The euphoria caused is usually short-lived and varies in intensity among different stimulants. For example, although methylphenidate produces euphoria in 30% to 40% of users, more than 60% report dysphoric reactions, such as nervousness, irritability, and depression (Mendes et al., 2022).
Methylphenidate also decreases appetite and food intake by producing a feeling of nausea or vomiting in 20% to 40% of users (Mendes et al., 2022). The behavioral effects of stimulants are usually subtle and may not be noticed by the individual user until high doses are used chronically. An increased level of awareness and stimulation may result in a change in lifestyle, including an increased level of activity.
The physiological effects of stimulants on various individuals include hypertension, acne, and increases in appetite (Briffa, 2020). The physiological impact of stimulants on the individual user is relatively easy to notice. They can range from palpitations and insomnia to sweating and hallucinations. These effects occur very quickly after ingesting a hefty dose of cocaine or amphetamine and can last for several hours. Additionally, individuals also experience Physiological effects of stimulants such as the feeling of nausea, vomiting, and palpitations. This cycle of behaviors, physiological changes, and behavioral effects can become a vicious cycle if the user cannot break out of the behavioral pattern. The result can be detrimental and lead to social ostracism, family problems, and abuse.
References
Briffa, J., Sinagra, E., & Blundell, R. (2020). Heavy metal pollution in the environment and its toxicological effects on humans.Heliyon, 6(9), e04691. Web.
Mendes, F. R., Costa, C. D., Wiltenburg, V. D., Morales-Lima, G., Fernandes, J. A., & Filev, R. (2022). Classic and non‐classic psychedelics for substance use disorder: A review of their historic, past and current research.Addiction Neuroscience, 3, 100025. Web.