Drugs & Health Blog

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Your Brain on Stimulants, Part 3: Misusing Prescription Stimulants—Myth vs. Fact

April 17, 2017 / The NIDA Blog Team

It’s possible to misuse a stimulant—even if it was prescribed for you—and that can lead to health problems. Read More »

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Your Brain on Stimulants, Part 2: Types of Stimulants

April 10, 2017 / The NIDA Blog Team

While prescription stimulants can help with ADHD, non-prescribed stimulants do not help with ADHD, and each one has its own side effects and risks. Read More »

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Your Brain on Stimulants, Part 1: How Stimulants Work

April 03, 2017 / The NIDA Blog Team

Stimulants increase alertness, attention, and energy by raising the levels of dopamine (a chemical) in the brain and other parts of the body, similar to the way dopamine is naturally produced. Read More »

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Could Snake Venom Help with the Opioid Problem?

March 20, 2017 / The NIDA Blog Team

Scientists are studying venom from snakes and spiders that might lead to safer or more effective pain relievers. This approach to developing drugs is called “toxineering." Read More »

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So You Think You May Have a Problem with Drugs. What Now?

March 13, 2017 / The NIDA Blog Team

If you think you might have a problem with drugs, it’s important to talk to a medical professional. If you have questions or concerns about taking that step, we have answers. Read More »

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