How are Stimulants Taken?
Stimulants are taken orally as a tablet; crushed and snorted; or liquefied and injected intravenously (IV). Some stimulant abusers take the drug anally (known as “plugging” or “shafting”). What are the Short Term Effects of Stimulant Abuse? Users feel alert, focused, and awake. Appetite is reduced and sleeplessness can occur. Stimulants increase blood pressure and heart rate and can cause high body temperatures. What are the Long Term Effects of Stimulant Abuse? There is a high potential for addiction, paranoia, and sleep deprivation (which can cause psychotic episodes). There is also a danger of long-term insomnia, digestive problems, and erratic weight change. Stimulants are most dangerous when used with over-the-counter medications including cold medications containing decongestants; antidepressants, unless supervised by a physician; and some asthma medications. Antidepressants — Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s), MAO Inhibitors, Tricyclics These include Prozac, Zolof
