Stimulants are medications used to speed up brain activity causing increased alertness, attention, and energy that come with elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate and breathing.

Caffeine, found in some soda/pop and chocolate, is an example of a mild stimulant, and does not require a prescription. It is found in some of the things we drink and eat.

Stimulants can also be found in some over-the-counter medications. This means you can buy these medications without a prescription at a grocery store/supermarket or convenience store and other places. Some kinds of over-the-counter medications contain stimulants which help relieve stuffy noses by opening nasal passages.

The stronger forms of prescription stimulants are available when prescribed by a doctor or other healthcare professional.

If you've ever had a lot of cola or chocolate, then you may have felt the effects of a 'stimulant' in your body. Caffeine is a mild stimulant and it can be found in some of the foods we eat. Too much of it can make you feel nervous or jittery.
Misuse of Stimulants	Abuse of Stimulants

previous | next