Legal Stimulants

• Two of the most readily available and widely used stimulants are caffeine (found in coffee, teas and many carbonated beverages) and nicotine (found in tobacco products). Both help to maintain or increase a state of being awake, but each is addictive.
  
  

Prescription Stimulants

• Amphetamines and some antidepressant medications (Wellbutrin, for example) have a stimulant effect, but are only legally available by prescription.
  
  

Illicit Stimulants

• Some stimulants that have little or no medicinal value and have been outlawed in most of the world include cocaine/crack-cocaine and methamphetamine. These are highly addictive and have a very high mortality rate.
  
  

Psychological Effects of Legal Stimulants

• The psychological effect of legal stimulants tend to be increased alertness and heightened awareness. In high doses, these can produce agitation, upset stomach, headache and dehydration (caffeine).
  
  

Psychological Effects of Illicit Stimulants

• The psychological effects of illicit stimulants tend to be potent. They can include euphoria, feelings of invincibility, an exaggerated sense of ability, hostility, anger and panic.