Stimulants

Stimulant misuse can mean using illicit stimulants (such as cocaine or methamphetamine) or using prescription medication (such medication to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) like Dexedrine®, Adderall®,Ritalin® and Concerta®) as in higher amounts, more often, or for longer than prescribed; using for recreational purposes; or using prescription medication prescribed to someone else. Stimulant misuse can cause serious health effects, addiction, and death.

Vermont's past year stimulant use rates are higher that the U.S. average

U.S. and Vermont stimulant rates: cocaine 1.8%, 2.4%; methamphetamine 0.9%, 1.1%,, respectively.

^Source:^{State Level Data National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2022-2023}

Health risks of stimulant use

Short-Term Effects	Long-Term Effects
Increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, stroke, heart attack Tremors., muscle twitches, vertigo Gastrointestinal pain and nausea, kidney damage Headache, seizure, coma Restlessness, irritability, anxiety, panic, paranoia Death	Stroke, heart attack Risk of bacterial infection, HIV, hepatitis (through injection) Tooth decay and loss Difficulty with verbal learning, slower reaction times Anxiety, confusion, insomnia, mood disturbances Death

Learn more at NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse).

Reducing the health risks of stimulant use

Stimulants that have been prescribed to you:

Don't drink alcohol while using stimulants
Take only as prescribed by your doctor
Never share your prescription stimulants
Store your prescription stimulants in a secure place and safely get rid of unused medication

What to do if you suspect methamphetamine production?

Methamphetamine production is extremely dangerous. If you suspect methamphetamine production in your neighborhood - call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not go inside and stay away from the location. Methamphetamine production uses toxic chemicals than can explode. For more information visit the Vermont State Police Clandestine Laboratory Enforcement Team.