Stimulants constitute a large family of drugs that allow users to temporarily enhance their physical and mental capacity through the stimulation of the nervous system. Some stimulants are seeing wide commercial use, with the most famous substances being Adderall and Ritalin, which are commonly used to treat ADHD. Illegal substances that have a similar effect on the nervous system include cocaine, ecstasy, and methamphetamine. Some of the milder nervous stimulants are available without prescriptions and are often used in foodstuffs. Nicotine and caffeine are the most widely-known examples of such.
Stimulants have a variety of effects on the body. The primary effect includes stimulating the nerve endings, enhancing the power of the signals sent and received by them. It induces a state of deep euphoria and is extremely addictive. In milder cases, the sense of euphoria is less intense but can be used to build up a much stronger long-term addiction. Additional effects include the seizure of arteries, numbness, slower heart rate, and temperature increase. Many users report a loss of sense of smell when utilizing harder drugs.
The emotional effects of stimulants vary in their intensity based on the drug’s strength, familiarity, and frequency of use. Individuals suffering from side effects of stimulant abuse experience unprovoked bouts of irritability and panic attacks. Restlessness is also a frequent symptom encountered by the majority of people. Finally, users under the effects or after-effects of stimulants may feel bouts of paranoia. Prescription drugs can be managed to reduce the likelihood and intensity of these behavioral and psychological outcomes. Illegal drugs, due to their strength, resulting in escalating effects on the person’s body and behavior.