Metadate Abuse (Cont.)

The History Behind Stimulants and Their Abuse

Historically, stimulants were used to treat asthma and other breathing problems, obesity, neurological disorders, and a variety of other ailments. As their potential for abuse and addiction became apparent, the use of stimulants began to decrease. Now, stimulants are prescribed for treating only a few health conditions, including narcolepsy, ADHD, and depression that has not responded to other treatments. Stimulants may also be used for short-term treatment of obesity and for patients with asthma.
 
Stimulants such as Metadate have an effect on key brain neurotransmitters called monoamines, which include norepinephrine and dopamine (see Methylphenidate and D2 Receptors). Drugs in this category increase the levels of these chemicals in the brain and body. This, in turn, increases blood pressure and heart rate, constricts blood vessels, increases blood sugar levels, and opens up the pathways of the respiratory system. In addition, the increase in dopamine is associated with a sense of euphoria that can accompany the use of stimulants.
 
Research indicates that people with ADHD do not become addicted to stimulant medications such as Metadate when taken in the form and dosage prescribed. However, when misused, stimulants can be addictive.
 

Possible Consequences of Metadate Abuse

The consequences of Metadate abuse can be dangerous. Taking high doses of a stimulant can result in an irregular heartbeat, dangerously high body temperatures, and/or the potential for cardiovascular failure or seizures. Taking high doses of some stimulants repeatedly over a short period of time can lead to hostility or feelings of paranoia in some individuals.
 
Metadate should not be mixed with antidepressants or over-the-counter cold medicines containing decongestants without the approval of a healthcare provider. Antidepressants may enhance the effects of Metadate, and taking Metadate with decongestants may cause blood pressure to become dangerously high or lead to irregular heart rhythms.
 
(Metadate Abuse Continued: Page 3)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;