- Stimulants reverse the effects of fatigue on both mental and
physical tasks. - Two commonly used stimulants are nicotine and
caffeine. - A number of stimulants are under regulatory control
of the CSA and are available by prescription for legitimate
medical use. - As drugs of abuse, stimulants are frequently
taken to produce a sense of exhilaration, enhance self esteem,
improve mental and physical performance, increase activity,
reduce appetite and to "get high". They are among the most
potent agents of reward and reinforcement that underlie the
problem of dependence. - They are taken orally, sniffed, smoked
and injected. - During periods of heavy use all other interests
become secondary to recreating the initial euphoric rush. -
Tolerance can develop rapidly and both physical and
psychological dependence occur. - Abrupt cessation is commonly
followed by depression, anxiety, drug craving and extreme
fatigue known as a "crash". - Risks: chest pain with
palpitations, hostility, aggression, suicidal or homicida