What Are Stimulants?
Stimulants are substances that speed up messages between the brain and body. They can make a person feel more alert, energetic, or confident, but they may also cause anxiety, aggression, or paranoia. Common examples of stimulants include methamphetamine, amphetamines, cocaine, nicotine, and caffeine.
How Are Stimulants Used?
Stimulants can be taken in various ways, including swallowing, snorting, smoking, or injecting.
Short-term Effects of Stimulants
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Anxiety, agitation, and restlessness
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
Long-term Effects of Stimulants
- Paranoia and psychosis
- Depression
- Cardiovascular problems (heart attacks, strokes)
- Seizures
Risks of Stimulant Use
Physical Risks
- Heart problems: Increased heart rate and blood pressure can heighten the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Damage to blood vessels: Stimulants can lead to issues such as nosebleeds and headaches.
- Seizures: Prolonged use or overdose may trigger seizures.
- Weight loss: Reduced appetite can lead to malnutrition.
- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or sleep disturbances are common.
Mental and Emotional Risks
- Addiction: Stimulants are highly addictive and can lead to dependence and withdrawal.
- Psychosis: Can cause hallucinations, delusions, and extreme paranoia.
- Anxiety and irritability: Increased feelings of nervousness and agitation.
- Mood swings: Rapid emotional shifts, including depression.
- Impaired judgment: May lead to risky or dangerous behaviour.
Harm Reduction Advice for Stimulant Use
- Use with trusted people: It’s safer to use stimulants around people you know and trust.
- Snort safely: Use a clean straw to snort, and avoid sharing to reduce the risk of infection. If a clean straw isn’t available, sterilise any equipment before use.
- Cut powders finely: This helps ensure you don’t accidentally take more than intended.
- Alternate nostrils: Switching nostrils can reduce damage to nasal passages.
- Start low, go slow: Take small amounts and space out doses to avoid taking too much.
- Avoid mixing substances: Avoid combining stimulants with other drugs, including alcohol.
- Safe sex: Stimulants can increase libido, so practising safe sex is essential.
