It may seem counterintuitive that stimulant medications are prescribed to treat a disorder that involves hyperactivity, like ADHD. However, the therapeutic effect comes from increases in neurotransmitter activity within brain areas associated with impulse control, such as the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia.

Stimulants and Impulse Control in ADHD

While amphetamines are stimulant medications often associated with abuse, they are commonly prescribed to people diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

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Amphetamines are a class of psychostimulant drugs that accelerate the transmission of messages between the brain and the body. While some forms are prescribed by doctors to treat conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), they are also frequently produced and used illicitly, carrying a significant potential for abuse.

Amphetamines

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

A delusional or psychotic state, closely resembling acute schizophrenia, that is brought on by repeated use of high doses of amphetamine

Amphetamine Psychosis

Amphetamines exert their stimulant effects through a dual-action mechanism involving dopamine. They are similar to cocaine in that they block the reuptake of dopamine from the synapse, but they also actively stimulate the release of this neurotransmitter, which further increases its concentration and impact.

Amphetamine's Mechanism of Action

Although it may seem paradoxical to treat a disorder involving hyperactivity with a stimulant, amphetamines are an effective treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Their therapeutic benefit is achieved by increasing neurotransmitter activity in brain regions responsible for impulse control, specifically the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia.

Therapeutic Use of Amphetamines for ADHD

A person consumes a substance that is known to be a psychostimulant. Shortly after, they report feeling highly energetic, focused, and euphoric, with a reduced appetite and need for sleep. Which of the following statements best analyzes the most likely underlying neurochemical reason for these specific effects?

“What Are Amphetamines and Ecstasy?” Natural History Research Group - University of Queensland, 21 Sept. 2020, https://natural-history-study.uq.edu.au/about-study/what-are-amphetamines-and-ecstasy

What Are Amphetamines and Ecstasy?

Amphetamines have a mechanism of action quite similar to cocaine in that they block the reuptake of dopamine in addition to stimulating its release.

Amphetamines Mechanism of Action

Amphetamines as ADHD Treatment

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive type of amphetamine that has become increasingly widespread. Its popularity is partly due to its accessibility and low cost, as it can be synthesized from readily available ingredients like pseudoephedrine, a compound found in many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies. Despite laws designed to restrict access to such precursors, methamphetamine remains a popular drug option. It is often available in a potent, smokable form known as 'crystal meth,' which is particularly addictive because it rapidly enters the brain, creating an intense but brief euphoria that encourages repeated use.

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