| Stimulants |
 | | Ruptured left ventricle of a human heart. Over use of stimulants increases risk of heart attacks and rupture. |
Stimulants are substances that have a direct effect on the central nervous system. They increase the excitation of the brain and the body. Adrenalin is an example of a naturally occurring stimulant in the body. The most commonly used stimulants in sport are amphetamines, cocaine, ephedrine and caffeine.
Stimulants are used by athletes to attain increased alertness, reduce tiredness and to increase competitiveness and aggression.
They can also help athletes exercise more strenuously and become less sensitive to pain.
Effects of stimulants
Stimulants can cause problems with the body's ability to regulate its temperature, meaning that the body may become overheated. They can also stop the heart and other vital organs from working properly. Other problems include:
Loss of appetite
Loss of sleep (insomnia)
Reduction of fatigue resulting in exhaustion
Hallucinations
Body trembling
Restlessness, agitation, tension
Palpitations and heart rhythm disorders
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