• Question: how can drugs stimulate energy

    Asked by hamil13 to Sarah, Tom on 24 Jun 2011.
    • Photo: Sarah Thomas

      Sarah Thomas answered on 24 Jun 2011:


      There aren’t any drugs that stimulate energy, but what they can do is mimic neurotransmitters like dopamine, seratonin and norepinephrine – these neurotransmitters are responsible for the ‘fight or flight’ response. So if a drug mimics them, then you get a rush of adrenaline, increase in blood pressure and your nervous system is stimulated which gives you a buzz.

      An example of an illegal drug that does this is ecstacy. That’s why you get a sense of euphoria when you take it, but this is also why it is harmful. It can be bad for you heart and actually give you brain damage after long-term use.

    • Photo: Tom Crick

      Tom Crick answered on 24 Jun 2011:


      Stimulants are drugs which induce temporary improvements in either mental or physical function, such as enhanced alertness, wakefulness, and locomotion. Stimulants are widely used throughout the world as prescription medicines and as illicit substances of recreational use or abuse.

      One of the most common (legal) stimulants is caffeine: it acts as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, temporarily warding off drowsiness and restoring alertness.

      I have had two cups of coffee already this morning, but it’s not working…!

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