Questions may arise about whether stimulants can be dangerous since some stimulants are available by prescription. One question might be, “What are stimulants, and how can someone become addicted to stimulants when doctors prescribe them?” Like most medications, stimulants can be dangerous if someone misuses them or gets them from a source outside of their doctor. Unfortunately, people that have an addiction to stimulants often turn to a stimulant addiction treatment program to regain control over their life. If you’re struggling with an addiction to stimulants, please reach out to the experts at Addiction Rehab Centers today at 844.910.0686 to learn about the treatment options available.
What Are Stimulants?
Stimulants are a class of drug that is available both by prescription and by illegal means. Drugs that are classified as stimulants speed up the systems in the body. Some prescription medications, commonly known as amphetamines, are stimulants. The doctor may prescribe them for different reasons and at different dosage amounts.
Some stimulants are also available in certain over-the-counter products, such as diet aids, products that claim to boost energy, and cold medications. For instance, some people admit to taking laxatives to obtain the stimulant effects, not because they need the product.
Stimulants are a common source of drug abuse and addiction. The user may take them in larger amounts than the prescribed dose. Alternatively, they may use someone else’s prescription or buy it illegally on the streets.
There is a wide range of illicit stimulants, including:
- Methamphetamine
- Synthetic cathinones, which you may know as “bath salts”
- Cocaine
Stimulants come in several different forms, including pills, “rocks,” liquids, or powders.
The Dangers of Stimulants
There are myths about stimulants, the same as there are myths about some other types of drugs. One myth is the mistaken belief that a person cannot become addicted to prescribed stimulants. Unfortunately, some people believe that they cannot become addicted to a drug that physicians prescribe and will not need stimulant addiction treatment. The truth is that there are millions of people that are addicted to stimulants. Statistics show an increase in the number of people that are addicted to stimulants over the past several years. Furthermore, the death rate attributed to stimulants is increasing in the U.S.
There are both short-term dangers and long-term dangers associated with stimulants. Some short-term effects of taking stimulants may include having a temporary boost in energy and mental alertness, which a quick decline in energy will quickly follow. They may also demonstrate hypersensitivity to touch, sound, or light. Many people who use stimulants also have increased heart and breathing rates and are increasingly paranoid.
The long-term effects of addiction to stimulants include:
- Respiratory distress
- Changes in brain structure and function
- Severe dental issues
- Memory loss
- Confusion
Furthermore, addiction to stimulants may also result in having a higher risk of contracting HIV, AIDS, or hepatitis, experiencing an overdose, or death.
Seek Treatment at Addiction Rehab Centers
Stimulant addiction treatment offers individuals the opportunity to learn how to stop using the drugs that put them at risk of severe health issues or death. People who use stimulants often use other drugs and stimulants, which increases the risks associated with their addiction.
Addiction Rehab Centers understands your struggles. We offer comprehensive substance abuse treatment that we base on your specific needs. Some examples of our therapies include:
Get the help you need right now to start your recovery and stop using cocaine, meth, or other drugs. We are available to help you regain control over your life. Contact us today at 844.910.0686 and learn how to live without the dangers of stimulants.
