Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulants are medicines that speed up
physical and mental processes.
Purpose
Central Nervous System Stimulants are used to treat Attention-Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a condition in which people have unusually
high activity levels and short attention spans. People with this condition
are easily distracted and may have trouble sitting still, planning ahead, or
finishing what they start. They may also act recklessly and impulsively, and
have behavioral and emotional problems.
Central Nervous System Stimulants
increase attention, decrease restlessness, and improve physical coordination
in people who have ADHD. The drugs may also curb impulsive behavior. When
used to treat ADHD, Central Nervous System Stimulants are just one part of
the total treatment program, which also includes social, educational and
psychological help.
Although Central Nervous System Stimulants are effective in treating ADHD,
their use is controversial, especially in children. Because they may cause
unwanted side effects, parents and doctors of children who need the drugs
must carefully weigh the risks and benefits. There is also concern that
these drugs are being prescribed for some children who do not need them.
Other physical and mental conditions can have some of the same symptoms as
ADHD, so it is important to rule out other causes before starting treatment
with Central Nervous System Stimulants.
This type of medicine is also used to treat Narcolepsy, in which people
have an uncontrollable desire to sleep or may suddenly fall into a deep
sleep. The medication is prescribed in an effort to reduce the frequency and
severity of attacks of Narcolepsy.
Central Nervous System Stimulants should not be used to increase alertness
or to substitute for sleep. Although they can cause loss of appetite and
weight loss, they should not be used as "diet pills."
Description
Commonly used Central Nervous System Stimulants are Amphetamine,
Dextroamphetamine, Methamphetamine, Pemoline and Methylphenidate.
Amphetamines and Methylphenidate are available only with a doctor's
prescription. Because of their high potential for abuse, sale of these drugs
is strictly controlled.