Stimulant Addiction & Abuse Facts

There are various types of stimulants, some of which are prescribed and others that are illegal. Abusing these substances can cause serious short- and long-term effects. View these stimulant addiction and abuse facts to learn more.

If you or your loved one need a safe space to recover from addiction, contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn more about our short- and long-term recovery programs.

What are Stimulants?

Stimulants are a drug classification that targets the central nervous system to increase cognitive function, alertness, energy, and concentration. When prescription stimulants are used as directed, they work to help those suffering from ADHD, narcolepsy, and sometimes obesity.

What is Abuse?

Abuse occurs when a person uses a prescription drug in a way that’s not directed. This could mean using a drug that isn’t prescribed to them, increasing their dosage, or snorting the drug instead of taking it orally. In addition, using any sort of illegal drug is considered abuse.

Prescription Stimulants

The primary types of prescription stimulants used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and obesity include:

Amphetamines
Dextroamphetamines
Methylphenidates

Here are some common brand names for prescription stimulants:

Adderall
Ritalin
Concerta
Dexedrine
Ephedrine
Desoxyn

Illegal Stimulants

Some illegal stimulants include:

Cocaine, also called coke, blow, or snow
Meth, also called crank, crystal, glass, ice, or tweak
Crack, also called crack cocaine or rocks
MDMA, also called ecstasy or molly

How are Stimulants Used?

Prescription stimulants primarily come in pill or tablet form. However, many people often crush and snort the pills, which provides a near-instant high. Illegal stimulants are usually either smoked, snorted, or injected, depending on the specific drug.

The effects of most stimulants don’t last long when they’re abused. In fact, according to how the drug is taken, a person may only feel its effects for as little as five to thirty minutes. Because of this, users might take the drug back-to-back to maintain the high.

Signs Someone is High on Stimulants

Here are some signs that someone is high on stimulants:

Talkativeness
Hyperactivity
Elation
Alertness
Loss of appetite
Nervousness
Agitation
Irritability
Paranoia
Confusion
Aggression
Tremors
Irregular heartbeat

Statistics on Stimulant Abuse

Explore these shocking facts about stimulant abuse:

According to a survey done by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, in 2019, 4.9 million Americans aged 12 and older reported misusing prescription stimulants the previous year
The above survey also found that 5.5 million Americans reported using cocaine and 2 million Americans reported using meth the previous year.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported that approximately 40% of overdose deaths in 2018 were caused by stimulants.

Consider Myrtle Beach Recovery

Knowing these stimulant addiction and abuse facts can help you recognize when it’s time to seek help. If you’re addicted to one of the above stimulants or struggling to maintain your sobriety, consider reaching out to Myrtle Beach Recovery. We offer short-term and long-term recovery programs, providing a safe place to work through the 12 Steps.

/by clickgiant