The stimulant drugs They are those capable of activating specific areas of the nervous system, which is related to their ability to raise dopamine levels in some areas of the brain.
This is associated with an increase in energy and attention levels, which increases the physical and intellectual performance of those who consume them, producing a sensation of pleasure and satisfaction that is the cause of their great potential for addiction.
Stimulant drugs change brain chemistry
The activation obtained with the use of stimulant drugs is achieved by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters, which are the substances responsible for the various processes occurring at the level of the nervous system.
In the particular case of stimulant drugs, these are able to increase the levels of dopamine, which is the neurotransmitter related to the sensation of pleasure. It is normally released during situations that are pleasant or satisfying, such as eating and having sexual activity. In general, actions that increase dopamine levels tend to have an addictive effect.
Dopamine also intervenes in the neurological circuits related to movement and attention, for this reason the deficiency of dopamine levels develops with the development of Parkinson's disease that is manifested mainly by the appearance of involuntary movements such as tremor and rigidity .
Some examples of stimulant drugs
There are several substances capable of exerting a stimulating effect on the nervous system. Perhaps one of the most used and known worldwide is the caffeine, an alkaloid present in coffee, consumed not only for its pleasant taste, but also to contribute to increasing the level of alertness and reducing drowsiness when it is necessary to carry out recreational, work and academic night activities.
A cup of coffee provides about 60 to 150 mg of caffeine, depending on the type and its preparation technique. Caffeine is also present in cola and energy drinks, used mainly to increase stamina and physical endurance.
Among the drugs of abuse, the best known stimulant is cocaine. It is an alkaloid that is obtained from the leaves of the coca plant (Erytrhoxylon coca), native to the high mountains of Bolivia. This substance is obtained for consumption mainly in the form of cocaine hydrochloride, presented as a white powder that can be used by inhalation, aspiration when smoked or used in intravenous injections.
Other stimulant drugs used without a prescription include amphetamines. It is a type of drug that is used to treat some types of insomnia, as well as in children who suffer from attention deficit that is accompanied by hyperactivity. The abuse of these substances is common among students, due to their stimulating effect that allows them to stay awake, another group of people who usually have addiction to this type of drugs are those who use them for their inhibitory effect on appetite.
Stimulant drugs can have serious consequences for the body
The main adverse effect related to the use of any drug is addiction. In the case of stimulant drugs, the sensation of pleasure and well-being obtained can make the individual continually seek to achieve these states. When the effect of these substances ceases, discomforts such as fatigue, lethargy and sleep pattern disorders usually appear, which lead to their consumption being maintained.
Stimulant substances, in general, have a series of dangerous effects at the cardiovascular level; These include increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, arrhythmias, and development of serious conditions such as strokes. In very high doses they can cause death.
The abuse of stimulants leads to the appearance of changes in the mental sphere, mainly the development of feelings of graciousness, aggressiveness and even paranoia that can reach a state of psychosis. They are also capable of maintaining a state of wakefulness or alertness for a long time, reducing the need for sleep; They can also lead to malnutrition due to their appetite-suppressing effect, which reduces food intake with their use.
Photos: Fotolia - Peter Hermes / tawesit
