Stimulant Drugs

Definition

Stimulant drugs are substances that increase the activity of the central nervous system, leading to heightened arousal, alertness, and attention. They can enhance neural firing by increasing the release or blocking the reuptake of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.

Related terms

Dopamine:

A neurotransmitter involved in motivation, reward, and pleasure. Stimulant drugs increase dopamine levels in the brain.

Norepinephrine:

A neurotransmitter that regulates attention and alertness. Stimulants can boost norepinephrine activity.

Reuptake:

The process where neurotransmitters are taken back into the presynaptic neuron after being released into the synapse. Stimulants can block or slow down reuptake, leading to increased availability of neurotransmitters in the synaptic gap.