4. Stimulants

4. Stimulants

Stimulants are drugs that elevate the mood and increase wakefulness but may have a variety of
negative effects such as agitation, fatigue, convulsions and dependence.
Amphetamine type stimulants
Amphetamine type stimulants (ATS) may be obtained illegally or on prescription. They include
the various forms of speed, including methamphetamine (ice) and dexamphetamine, which is
prescribed for attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) but commonly abused.
ATS are known by many names, including 'speed', 'goey', 'fast', 'whizz', 'shabu' and 'ice'.
Use of amphetamines promotes a feeling of well being and energises the user, making sleep
difficult. In higher doses, it may result in increased pulse rate and blood pressure, anxiety,
confusion, insomnia, loss of appetite and, in some cases, psychosis.
Prolonged methamphetamine use is associated with dependence, extreme paranoia,
argumentativeness, loss of appetite and hyperactivity. In severe cases, users may be impaired by
hallucinations, delusions or increased likelihood of violent or aggressive behaviour.
ATS use increased in the mid 1990s. This was associated with an increase in ATS-related mental
health problems, including anxiety, depression and, sometimes, psychosis.