4-4.
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS) STIMULANTS
a. Definition/Examples. For thousands of years, people have used stimulants.
The most common stimulants are the nicotine in tobacco products and the caffeine in
coffee, tea, and some cola beverages. Central nervous system depressants such as
those in paragraph 4-3 of this lesson slow down the action of the body's central nervous
system while central nervous system stimulants speed up the body's system. Examples
of central nervous system stimulants include cocaine and amphetamines. Common
amphetamines include Dexedrine, Benzedrine, and Methedrine.
b. Signs/Symptoms of Central Nervous System Stimulant Abuse.
(1)
Intoxication/overdose. Included are the following:
(a) Excitement.
(b) Paranoia.
(c)
Tachycardia.
(d) Hypertension.
(e) Sweating.
(f)
Dilated pupils.
(g)
Hallucinations.
(h) Cardiac arrhythmias.
(i)
Convulsions.
(j)
Respiratory collapse.
Withdrawal. Included are the following:
(2)
(a) Apathy.
(b) Psychomotor depression.
(c)
Sleep disturbance.
(d)
Suicidal tendencies.
MD0586
4-12