Stimulants

Excerpt

The term stimulants cover a broad class of drugs that increase the activity of the central nervous system. These drugs are used by a very high percentage of the general population for various reasons, including performance enhancement, medical benefits, and recreational purposes. Depending on the stimulant and jurisdiction, the drug may be legal or illegal. This activity outlines the indications, mechanisms of action, methods of administration, significant adverse effects, contraindications, and monitoring, of various substances that can be termed stimulants, so providers can direct patient therapy in using and counseling regarding their use, as part of the interprofessional team, with a basis on the current knowledge for optimal utilization.