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Reviewed by Stimulant drugs, often referred to as โuppers,โ are a class of substances that significantly increase the activity of the central nervous system, leading to heightened alertness, energy, and focus.
These drugs can be used for performance boosts for legitimate medical reasons. However, the line between use and misuse is dangerously thin, as the consequences of stimulant abuse can be severe and even fatal. In 2021 alone, nearly 33,000 Americans lost their lives to overdoses involving psychostimulants, a 37% increase from the previous year.
If some stimulants are legal, how can you tell them apart? Keep reading to learn more about upper meds, including a stimulant drugs list.
Learn About Stimulants Abuse:
What Are Stimulant Drugs?
The term uppers refers to a class of substances that stimulates the central nervous system (CNS), leading to increased alertness, energy, and attention.
Stimulant drugs work by enhancing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine and accelerating the communication between the brain and the body, resulting in enhanced cognitive and physical performance. They are used for various purposes, including medical treatments, performance enhancement, and recreational use.
There are several types of stimulant drugs, which can be broadly categorized into:
- Prescription Stimulants: Prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
- Illicit Stimulants: Often used recreationally for their euphoric and energizing effects. Highly addictive.
- Over-the-Counter Stimulants: Some stimulants are legal and widely consumed in everyday products.
While stimulants have beneficial effects when used appropriately under medical supervision, they also carry significant risks, especially when misused. High doses or prolonged use can lead to serious health issues, including heart problems, anxiety, paranoia, addiction, and even death.
Types of Stimulant Drugs
Stimulant drugs can be categorized into different types based on their uses, legality, and effects on the body. While some are used under medical supervision to treat specific conditions, others are consumed recreationally or legally in everyday products.
Understanding the different types of stimulant drugs, along with specific examples, can help in recognizing their effects, benefits, and potential dangers. Examples of stimulant drugs include:
| Type of Stimulant Drug | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription Stimulants |
Stimulants can be prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. They help increase focus and reduce impulsivity |
Adderall (amphetamine), Ritalin (methylphenidate), Concerta (methylphenidate), Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), Modafinil (Provigil) |
| Illicit Stimulants |
Illicit stimulants are often used recreationally for their euphoric and energizing effects. They are highly addictive and pose significant health risks |
Cocaine, Methamphetamine (crystal meth), MDMA (ecstasy), Crack cocaine, Bath salts (synthetic cathinones), Khat (Catha edulis). |
| Over-the-Counter Stimulants |
These stimulants are legally available in everyday products and are commonly used to boost energy and concentration. Although legal, they can be habit-forming. |
Caffeine (found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some medications), Nicotine (found in tobacco products), Pseudoephedrine (found in some cold and allergy medications). |
Side Effects of Stimulants
The stimulant side effects can vary widely depending on the specific drug, dosage, method of administration, tolerance levels, the individual’s physiology and whether the drug is taken on an empty stomach. Additionally, the concurrent use of other drugs or stimulants can exacerbate these effects.
Below is a detailed overview of the potential side effects of stimulant use:
- Decreased appetite (possible intended effect in specific users)
- Anxiety
- Jitteriness
- Headaches
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Psychosis
- Pruritus
- Paranoia
- Sweating
- Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Seizures
- Arrhythmias
- EKG abnormalities (sinus arrhythmia, prolonged QT, ventricular tachycardia)
- Cerebrovascular event
- Sudden cardiac death
Intranasal administration of stimulants like cocaine may lead to irritation and damage to nasal tissues and further nosebleeds and rhinorrhea. Long-term stimulant use can significantly raise the risk of these serious cardiovascular events due to the chronic strain on the heart and blood vessels.
Are Stimulants Addictive?
Yes, the greatest danger of using stimulant drugs is that they can cause severe addiction. The addictive potential of stimulants is largely due to their effects on the brain’s reward system. When stimulants are used, they increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, which is associated with pleasure and reward.
This surge of dopamine can create a powerful sense of euphoria, leading users to seek out the drug repeatedly to experience the same feelings. Over time, repeated use of upper medications can lead to tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects. This can quickly escalate into stimulant use disorder, where the body and brain begin to rely on the drug to function normally.
If someone dependent on stimulants stops using them, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can include fatigue, depression, increased appetite, and intense cravings for the drug. For example, people can develop a caffeine addiction or misuse their prescription stimulants.
Stimulants Addiction
The addictive nature of stimulants varies depending on the type of stimulant and the method of use. Illicit stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine are particularly notorious for their high addiction potential, with users often becoming addicted after just a few uses.
Addiction to stimulants can have severe consequences, including negative impacts on mental and physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Stimulant addiction is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition, but it is treatable. Recognizing the signs of addiction is crucial for early intervention and treatment.
Common signs of stimulant addiction are:
- Pupils that are larger than normal can be a sign of stimulant use.
- Unintentional and significant weight loss due to decreased appetite.
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep, leading to severe sleep deprivation over time.
- Preoccupation with obtaining and using the drug, often at the expense of other activities.
- Needing higher doses of the stimulant to achieve the same effect as before.
- Ignoring work, school, or family obligations in favor of using the drug.
- Spending large amounts of money on stimulants, often leading to debt or financial instability.
- Persisting in drug use even when it causes physical, psychological, or social harm.
- Experiencing intense cravings for the drug and withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue and depression.
Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorders
Stimulant use disorder is a significant public health issue worldwide, contributing to a substantial burden of disease. Despite its prevalence, effective treatment options remain limited, with psychosocial interventions being the primary approach. Currently, no pharmacotherapies have been approved by the FDA specifically for stimulant addiction.
Research shows that the most effective treatments for stimulant use disorder are psychosocial interventions. These therapies focus on altering behavior and improving coping strategies to manage addiction. Two of the most supported psychosocial interventions include:
Contingency Management (CM)
CM has shown significant efficacy in treating stimulant use disorder. It involves providing tangible rewards, such as vouchers or cash, for evidence of abstinence (e.g., negative drug tests). This approach leverages positive reinforcement to encourage continued sobriety and engagement in treatment.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify and change the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their stimulant use. It also teaches skills for managing stress and avoiding triggers. CBT is widely recognized as an effective treatment for various substance use disorders, including SUD, and is often used in both individual and group settings.
Several medications have been studied for their potential to treat stimulant use disorder, but none have shown definitive effectiveness:
- Antidepressants: Used to manage co-occurring depression and anxiety in individuals with SUD.
- Dopamine Agonists: These medications aim to restore dopamine levels altered by stimulant use.
- Antipsychotics: Prescribed in some cases to manage stimulant-induced psychosis.
- N-Acetylcysteine: An antioxidant that has been studied for its potential to reduce cravings.
Despite ongoing research, the evidence supporting other treatment modalities, including various pharmacological interventions, remains limited.
Therefore, prevention is crucial for fostering healthy communities. Implementing education, early intervention, and community support can play a vital role in preventing stimulant misuse and promoting long-term health and well-being.
Stimulant Medications โ Bottom Line
Stimulant drugs have a significant role in medical treatment and recreational use. They encompass a range of substances with diverse applications, from managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy to enhancing performance.
While prescription stimulants offer valuable therapeutic benefits, the misuse of stimulantsโwhether prescribed, illicit, or over-the-counterโcan lead to serious health consequences, including addiction, cardiovascular issues, and mental health disorders. Effective treatment for stimulant use disorder primarily relies on psychosocial interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management.
If you or someone you know is struggling with stimulant misuse or addiction, seek evidence-based recovery and support. For more information on effective addiction treatments, contact a local rehab center.
People Also Ask
What are upper drugs?
โUpper drugsโ are stimulants that enhance alertness, energy, and mood by increasing central nervous system activity. They can include both prescription medications and illicit substances used for their euphoric effects.
What drugs are uppers?
Common uppers include prescription stimulants like amphetamines (Adderall, Ritalin) and illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine. Over-the-counter stimulants, such as caffeine, also fall into this category.
Are antidepressants uppers or downers?
Antidepressants are generally considered โdownersโ as they stabilize mood and reduce anxiety, which often involves increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels. However, their effect can vary based on the specific type and individual response.
Page Sources
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- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). (1999). Chapter 2โHow Stimulants Affect the brain and Behavior. Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorders - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576548/
- Arria, A. M., et al. (2008). Perceived harmfulness predicts nonmedical use of prescription drugs among college students: Interactions with sensation-seeking. Prevention Science: The Official Journal of the Society for Prevention Research, 9(3), 191. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11121-008-0095-8
- Farzam, K., Faizy, R. M., & Saadabadi, A. (2023, July 2). Stimulants. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539896/
- Ronsley, C, et al. (2020). Treatment of stimulant use disorder: A systematic review of reviews. PLoS ONE, 15(6). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0234809
- Festinger, D. S., et al. (2014). Contingency management for cocaine treatment: Cash vs. Vouchers. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 47(2), 168-174. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2014.03.001
