CNS Stimulants : Definition, Classification, Example, Mechanism of Action, Uses, Side Effects, Contraindications, & Interactions
Introduction
- CNS Stimulants are drugs whose primary action is to stimulate the CNS globally or to improve specific brain functions.
- The CNS stimulants mostly produce a generalized action which may, at high doses, result in convulsions.
- As a group, the CNS stimulants have diverse clinical uses and are important as drugs of abuse, as are the CNS depressants.
Classification
1. Psychomotor Stimulants : Psychomotor stimulants have predominant cortical action; their psychic effects are more important than those on medullary vital centres. They cause excitement and euphoria, decrease feelings of fatigue, and increase motor activity.
E.g.
- Amphetamine
- Armodafinil
- Atomoxetine
- Cocaine
- Caffeine
- Dexmethylphenidate
- Dextroamphetamine
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Methamphetamine
- Methylphenidate
- Modafinil
- Nicotine
- Theophylline
- Varenicline
- Pemoline
2. Convulsants
E.g.
- Strychnine
- Picrotoxin
- Bicuculline
- Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)/ Metrazol/ Leptazol
3. Analeptics (Respiratory stimulants) : These are drugs which stimulate respiration and can have resuscitative value in coma or fainting. They do stimulate respiration in subconvulsive doses, but margin of safety is narrow; the patient may get convulsions while still in coma.
The role of analeptics in therapeutics is very limited.
E.g.
- Doxapram
For detailed query about Uses, Side Effects, Contraindications, Interactions of CNS stimulant drugs, refer to individual drugs.
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