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1. What are prescription stimulants?

Prescription stimulants are used to treat ADHD, sleep disorders (narcolepsy), and sometimes depression

Stimulants are believed to exert their effects by targeting the dopaminergic and noradrenergic systems and increasing concentration of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft

They increase activity of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, affecting feelings of pleasure, blood vessels, blood pressure and heart rate, blood sugar, and breathing

Users experience an increase alertness, attention, focus, motivation, and energy

Classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as Schedule II medications due to their high potential for abuse and dependency

Examples: Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, Vyvanse, Focalin

 

Note: Image from Partnership for Drug-Free Kid