The Identification of Stimulant Misuse

Purpose:

Stimulants play an important role in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, as well as other psychiatric conditions. It is well known that stimulants are highly misused due to their mechanism of action in today's society. The pharmacokinetics, biochemical structure and physiological effects all contribute to the misuse of stimulants. It is imperative for prescribers and clinicians to understand the misuse potential of this class of medications. 

Methods:

A literature search and case studies are presented demonstrating the misuse potential, along with a review of the clinical implications and strategies for risk reduction.  

Results:

We conclude stimulants are one of the most abused class of prescription medications worldwide due to the mechanism of action.

Conclusion:

Healthcare professionals and clinicals must implement strategies to identify and reduce stimulant misuse, as well as understanding the clinical implementatons in these patients.