Tag: Psychostimulants

Globally, caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance, a potent stimulant found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks. However, many other substances, from prescription medications to illegal drugs, also act as stimulants by accelerating the central nervous system.

The dopamine transporter (DAT) is responsible for clearing dopamine from the synapse, but many drugs interfere with this process. In fact, stimulants like cocaine and methylphenidate achieve their effects primarily by blocking the DAT, leading to an amplified dopamine signal.

Glutamate is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, playing a critical role in brain functions like learning and memory. Disrupting the delicate balance of this powerful chemical, however, is a key mechanism for a number of psychoactive substances, impacting how a drug increases glutamate and alters neurological activity.

According to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, addictive substances can trigger up to 10 times more dopamine to flood the brain's reward center than natural rewards. This massive surge helps explain what drugs affect dopamine the most, including potent stimulants and certain psychotropic medications, impacting everything from movement disorders to addiction.

According to studies, while both Concerta (methylphenidate) and amphetamine-based medications like Dexedrine are effective for ADHD, suitability can vary by age. The question of *what is better, Concerta or Dexedrine* lacks a single answer and hinges entirely on individual patient response and needs. This article explores their key differences to help inform the conversation with a healthcare provider.

Adderall is not a single drug but a mixture of four amphetamine salts, with its active amphetamine isomers formulated in a precise ratio. A specific 3:1 ratio of dextroamphetamine to levoamphetamine is used, directly answering what percent of Adderall is dextroamphetamine. This unique formulation is engineered to provide a specific therapeutic effect for treating conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy.

Typically, the effects of an immediate-release Adderall tablet, often appearing as an orange pill, last for about 4 to 6 hours. This duration can be influenced by individual metabolism, dosage, and other health factors, making it a key consideration for those managing conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy.

In 2023, the number of patients in the United States who received a stimulant prescription increased by 18% from the previous year, reaching 16.5 million [1.7.3]. The primary category of drug that increases the CNS is known as stimulants or psychostimulants [1.2.1].

According to the DEA, stimulants like caffeine are consumed by more than 90% of the U.S. adult population, making them one of the most widely used psychoactive drugs in the world. This article explores what is a stimulant, examining how these powerful substances impact the central nervous system, their therapeutic applications, and the dangers associated with their misuse.

The dopamine transporter (DAT) is the primary protein responsible for clearing dopamine from the synapse, regulating the signal's duration and intensity. A wide range of drugs, both prescribed and illicit, may affect the DAT, altering brain chemistry and influencing a variety of neurological and behavioral functions.