I'm working on an article about the chemistry of Adderall, a mix of amphetamines commonly prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy, and came across some interesting information relating to other stimulants. While you may know Adderall and other amphetamines can cause psychosis (in addition to other effects), were you aware other stimulants can cause psychosis, including caffeine? This is called stimulant psychosis and is characterized by:
- delusions
- hallucinations
- disordered thinking
- catatonia (extreme cases)
- nausea
- diarrhea
- hypertension (high blood pressure)
- rapid breathing
- hyperthermia (elevated temperature)
- sleep deprivation
- tremor
- amphetamines
- methylphenidate (Ritalin)
- cocaine
- caffeine
Gives you something to think about, doesn't it? Have you ever experienced any of the symptoms associated with stimulant psychosis? Feel free to post a reply.
Comments
Being a very heavy coffee drinker for many years, I have notice that I am quick temper after a few cups of morning coffee. Also, notice that a lot of older people acts the same way after their morning coffee. Secretaries beware!
I’m a youth worker in the UK and I see the behavioural effect of high doses of caffeine from energy drinks on teens and young people day-in day-out. As a legal stimulant with no control it is seen as completely safe. Even those who admit that it has a negative effect on them refuse to take responsibility, the number of times I’ve heard ‘but the shop shouldn’t sell it to me’. Young people seem to be using it like alcohol or other drugs as a way to be more popular, little do they realise that at best people are laughing at them not with them.
However, until there is some solid research and information I do not have the tools to tackle the issue effectively.
Having suffered most of the symptoms of stimulant psychosis, i know of the unpleasant experience associated with the so called “misuse”.
Although i am still a regular coffee drinker (with no known issues) i would highly recommend energy drinks are taken off the market.
In my area we find energy drinks to be cheaper to buy than bottled water (and indeed any other drink) thus if living on a budget the cheaper option usually prevails, and possibly leading to ill health??
I would be very keen to study the long term physical and mental effects these stimulants have on our bodies.
Anyone else agree?