Stimulant Intoxication

Stimulant intoxication can manifest as various symptoms. It can be crucial to be aware of these signs so professional assistance can be sought if they appear. These symptoms may include: 

• Heightened energy
• Extreme happiness or euphoria
• Enhanced sensory awareness
• Racing thoughts
• Paranoia
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Impaired decision-making abilities

Some physical symptoms associated with stimulant intoxication include:

• Dilated pupils
• Dry mouth 
• High body temperature
• Irregular heartbeat
• High blood pressure
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Dizziness

Some individuals may also experience anxiety, paranoia, or aggression. Any of these symptoms may vary in severity and frequency. Still, any indication of stimulant intoxication—from high blood pressure to paranoia to any of the others above—should be taken seriously, and it can be crucial to seek professional medical support when experiencing them. 

Withdrawal symptoms 

Withdrawal refers to the physical and mental symptoms that can occur when a person reduces or discontinues the use of a substance—including a stimulant—upon which their body has become dependent. These symptoms can vary depending on the substance used, the duration of use, and the individual's general health. 

Individuals may experience a range of stimulant withdrawal² symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, depression, and intense cravings for the substance, whether it was used with a prescription or recreationally. These symptoms stem from the body's attempts to readjust to the absence of the drug after prolonged use. 

While these symptoms can be distressing, they are a part of the body's healing process. Professional help is often recommended during this challenging time, as medical professionals may be able to provide a range of solutions to minimize withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse for individuals with an addiction or dependency. 

Stimulant intoxication can occur when an individual consumes a high dose of stimulant substances, such as cocaine, amphetamines, or certain prescription medications. A combination of genetic, environmental, and mental health factors is thought to be why some individuals may be at greater risk of developing this condition than others, even when taking the same substance. 

Specific risk factors³ that may make individuals more susceptible to stimulant intoxication include:

• A history of substance use
• Family history of stimulant use or addiction
• Mental health disorders like depression and anxiety
• Peer pressure
• Stress
• Avoidance tendencies

The risk of stimulant intoxication is often higher in individuals who grew up in families where stimulants were used. However, anyone can be affected by stimulant intoxication, and reaching out for professional help is not a sign of weakness but a step toward recovery.

Often, those who engage in stimulant use or are more susceptible to substance intoxication experience other mental health conditions. Some of the most common co-occurring disorders include:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Depressive disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia
• Eating disorders

Treatment for stimulant intoxication often involves a combination of medical and therapeutic interventions. The immediate goal is often stabilization, or ensuring the individual's physical safety by managing acute symptoms like elevated heart rate, blood pressure spikes, or hyperthermia. Medical detoxification may also be beneficial in easing withdrawal symptoms, reducing cravings, and minimizing the risk of complications. Additional treatments may include the following. 

Medication

Medication may also play a role in the treatment of stimulant intoxication for some individuals. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, different types of medications may be used. For instance, benzodiazepines are often administered to reduce anxiety and manage seizures, a possible complication of severe stimulant intoxication. In other types of severe cases, antipsychotic medications might be used to address hallucinations or delusions in individuals who are severely intoxicated by a stimulant. New medications are also being studied for their potential use in treating stimulant intoxication.

Medication is often part of a broader treatment approach, which could include hydration, nutritional support, and therapeutic interventions. Each individual's response to treatment can vary, which emphasizes the value of customized treatment from a medical professional to manage stimulant intoxication safely. 

Consult a medical doctor before starting, changing, or stopping a medication for any condition. The information in this article is not a replacement for medical advice or diagnosis.

Self-care

Self-care can play a crucial role in maintaining mental health and can be a viable strategy for avoiding the use of stimulants as a coping mechanism. Regular self-care practices can nourish the mind and body and may enhance resilience, emotional stability, and general well-being. 

Self-care can include getting regular exercise, eating nutritious meals, getting ample rest, and engaging in enjoyable activities. These routines can bolster mental fortitude, potentially reducing the risk of resorting to harmful substances. Note that self-care alone generally isn’t a replacement for seeking professional treatment for any health condition.  Mental health professionals or doctors may provide guidance and additional supportive treatment recommendations.

There are numerous resources available to individuals who may be at risk of stimulant intoxication and addiction, which can be found on various websites. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is one that provides extensive research-based information on substance misuse (formerly referred to as “substance abuse”) and addiction. The site includes educational materials, data on the latest research, and resources for finding health services for appropriate treatment.

For immediate help, the SAMHSA National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), is a free, 24/7 information and support service for individuals and families experiencing mental health or substance use disorders. 

Support groups may also serve as a helpful resource for individuals at risk of stimulant intoxication. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences, gain understanding, and learn coping strategies alongside others who have had similar experiences. Notably, organizations like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and SMART Recovery offer in-person and online meetings worldwide. One can utilize the meeting-finder tools available on their websites to locate a local group. Additionally, local healthcare providers and community centers often have information about area support groups. 

Emerging research on treatment for stimulant use brings insights that could improve the efficacy of treatment and the management of stimulant use and addiction.

One area attracting attention is the exploration of pharmacological interventions. Scientists are investigating medications that could potentially curb cravings and help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms, thereby increasing their chances of successful recovery. According to a recent study, however, additional research is needed to confirm the efficacy of leading options for the treatment of stimulant use disorder. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) continues to be highly regarded as a treatment option for stimulant use disorder, likely due to its emphasis on helping individuals understand what incites them to use substances and develop healthier coping mechanisms. In a recent study, researchers looked at the efficacy of CBT in the group therapy setting for treating stimulant use disorder. The findings suggest that it may be beneficial to include group therapy in the treatment plan for individuals who experience stimulant intoxication and/or stimulant addiction. 

Furthermore, research on contingency management (CM) interventions, which provide tangible rewards to reinforce positive behaviors, has shown promising results for stimulant addiction treatment. For instance, one recent study suggests that CM strategies may be an effective form of treatment for individuals who were experiencing methamphetamine use disorder. Additionally, the study explicitly states that treatment programs should focus on prioritizing contingency management interventions for the treatment of stimulant intoxication and the different forms of stimulant use disorder. 

Every individual is unique, so treatments and mental health services can be tailored to suit each person's specific needs and circumstances.

Below are several statistics on stimulant intoxication and stimulant use disorders: 

• An estimated five million people misuse prescription stimulants every year.
• Up to 20% of college students misuse prescription stimulants.
• 6% of individuals in the US use prescription stimulants of some kind.
• 80% of individuals who engage in treatment for drug and alcohol use report improved quality of life.