The federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recently reported a sharp increase in emergency department visits by adults aged 18 to 34 for nonmedical use of legal stimulants. The report shows more than a 300% increase from 2005 (5,605 visits) to 2011 (22,949 visits). About 30% of the visits also involved alcohol (stimulants can increase the risk of alcohol poisoning).
Legal stimulants include both prescription drugs (e.g., medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and over-the-counter products (e.g., caffeine pills or caffeinated energy drinks). The report did not consider methamphetamine or other illegal stimulants.
The nonmedical use of prescription stimulants can lead to heart and blood vessel problems as well as abuse or dependence.
