National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse

Adderall, Dexedrine, Ritalin.

Prescription stimulants are medications which target the central nervous system and accelerate brain activity. They are typically used to increase energy and attention but also affect blood pressure, heart rate, and other bodily functions.

Tablets and capsules. 

For people with ADHD or narcolepsy, stimulants can help boost energy, attention, and alertness. They are also prescribed for asthma, obesity, and low blood pressure resulting from anesthesia. 

Stimulants increase heart rate and blood pressure, open up breathing passages, and decrease blood flow. When higher doses are taken, dangerous side-effects can occur. These include seizures, high body temperature, heart failure, and irregular heartbeat.

Under medical supervision, stimulants can be used safely in the long-term. Doctors will ensure that there are no underlying conditions that could pose a risk before prescribing these drugs. The dangers of long-term usage occur when these drugs are abused and taken in high doses or by people with underlying conditions.

For people with ADHD, stimulants can be essential. However, the effect of these drugs is different for people who do not have ADHD. A study by the University of Rhode Island and Brown University found that use of stimulants does not improve academic performance for students who do not have attention disorders. While feelings of alertness increase, the benefits of this medication will not help someone who does not have a deficit in the first place.