- Free Articles
-
Astrology of Mandalas
Encyclopedia of Psychology and Religion
-
Anthropomorphism
Encyclopedia of Psychology and Religion
-
Mandalas
Encyclopedia of Psychology and Religion
-
Quantum Chaos
Encyclopedia of Complexity and Systems Science
-
Carbohydrate-Metal Complexes: Structural Chemistry of Stable Solution Species
Glycoscience
- More Free Articles
This is the free portion of the full article.
The full article
is available to licensed users only.
How do I get access?
Stimulant Medications
Synonyms
Definition
Stimulant medications are psychoactive drugs that act on the central nervous system by inhibiting the reuptake of specific neurotransmitters including dopamine and norepinephrine, and consequently may elicit alertness, arousal, and in some cases euphoric feelings. Moreover, these medications may help attenuate symptoms of mild depression and narcolepsy, but are largely used to treat symptoms of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Popular stimulants in clinical use are largely prepared from methylphenidate, dextromethylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, or mixed amphetamine salts [3].
Description
Historical Context and the Modern Use of Stimulant Medications
The history of stimulant medication developed from the ancient use of stimulants, for largely recreational uses, by many cultures in different parts of the world.