STIMULANTS FACT SHEET

How do people use and misuse prescription stimulants?

Most prescription stimulants come in tablet, capsule, or liquid form, which a person takes by mouth. Some common prescription stimulants include Adderall,® Ritalin,® and Concerta.® While doctors can prescribe stimulants for adolescents who need them for health reasons, they can be misused in several ways. Misuse of a prescription stimulant means:

• taking medicine in a way or dose other than prescribed

• taking someone else's medicine

• taking medicine only for the effect it causes—to get high

How do prescription stimulants affect the brain and body?

Prescription stimulants increase the activity of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine is involved in the reinforcement of rewarding behaviors. Norepinephrine affects blood vessels, blood pressure and heart rate, blood sugar, and breathing.