Stimulants

• Stimulants are a class of drugs that directly affect the central nervous system.
• As a class, stimulants produce heightened alertness, excitation, pupil dilation, increased blood pressure, increased respiration, and a marked decrease in appetite.
• Stimulant abuse can lead to stroke and heart attack. Most stimulants are controlled substances that are available by prescription for medical purposes.
• Uncontrolled stimulants include caffeine and nicotine.
• Other well-known stimulants commonly seen by the laboratory include: cocaine, methamphetamine, amphetamine, methylphenidate (Ritalin), and ephedrine/pseudoephedrine.