Stimulants are a group of drugs that cause increased activity in the body. Sometimes referred to as uppers, stimulants speed up mental and physical processes, making them desirable as performance enhancers and for staying awake, losing weight, or getting high. No matter why a person starts taking stimulants, their euphoric and addictive qualities can quickly result in abuse and addiction. The long-term abuse of stimulants can have significant consequences, so seeking help from a substance abuse treatment program as soon as possible is vital.
Addiction to stimulants is dangerous because of their effects on the body’s major organs and the high risk for overdose. At Mile High Recovery Center, we provide comprehensive stimulant addiction treatment personalized to your unique needs.
Recovery is not only achieving sobriety but attaining a new state of being and healing. We believe that people must heal mentally, spiritually, and physically to discover lasting recovery. You can begin the path to recovery today by calling us at 303-268-2144.
Is Alcohol a Stimulant?
Many people believe that alcohol is a stimulant because it can have some stimulant effects. For example, alcohol can make you feel happy, confident, giddy, and energized. However, these effects are related to the initial surge of dopamine that comes after your first drink. The stimulant effects of alcohol typically occur with a BAC under 0.05mg/l.
Alcohol is actually a depressant and slows down your central nervous system. This slowing makes people slur their words, become uncoordinated, and lower inhibitions. Alcohol slows your heart rate and lowers blood pressure. Drinking large amounts of alcohol suppresses dopamine. Once your BAC level goes over 0.08mg/l, the depressant effects kick in.
Many people use stimulants and alcohol together, which is a dangerous practice. Stimulants can dull the effects of alcohol and make you unwittingly drink more. Combining stimulants and alcohol can:
- Lead to alcohol poisoning, which can be life-threatening
- Lead to heart disease over time
- Trigger anxiety and depression
- Cause sleep problems
- Cause seizures or strokes, in severe cases
- Impair reaction time, vision, and coordination
- Make you drunker if you drink on an empty stomach
Contrary to popular belief, the effects of alcohol and stimulants do not cancel each other out but rather intensify the effects of each. Mixing alcohol with cocaine or meth can have particularly harmful effects, including violence, suicidal thinking, and an increased risk of overdose.
Stimulant Definition
A stimulant is any drug that excites bodily systems, particularly the brain and central nervous system. Stimulants encourage alertness, wakefulness, elevated mood, increased speech and motor activity, and decreased appetite. Some stimulants are prescriptions and have a therapeutic value. However, their mood-elevating effects contribute to their abuse.
Stimulant Drugs List
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) divides stimulants into amphetamines, cocaine, including crack, khat, and methamphetamine, including crystal meth. Popular prescription stimulants include:
- Adderall®
- Concerta®
- Dexedrine®
- Focalin®
- Metadate®
- Methylin®
- Ritalin®
Individuals who abuse stimulants are at high risk of stroke, cardiac arrest, arrhythmia, and overdose. Using stimulants in conjunction with alcohol or other substances dramatically increases the risk of having an adverse reaction. If you struggle with stimulant abuse or addiction, stimulant addiction treatment at Mile High Recovery Center can help.
Find Relief From Stimulant Drug Addiction at Mile High Recovery Center
Mile High Recovery Center in Denver offers numerous evidence-based therapies and provides opportunities for proven modalities such as family therapy, 12-step programs, and equine therapy. Benefits of stimulants detox and stimulants rehab at Mile High Recovery Center include:
- The absence of environmental triggers
- Time and space to focus on recovery without distractions
- Wrap-around, 24/7 care, and support
- Healthy nutrition and recreational therapies
- The presence and support of peers who are on the same path
- Recovery coaching and spiritual guidance
- Holistic treatments, including Reiki
Don’t let stimulants addiction continue to wreak havoc in your life. Contact our team today. Call 303-268-2144 or use our online form.
