Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the central nervous system and excite bodily activity. Methamphetamine or crank is one of the fastest growing drugs of abuse. These drugs create less intense and less expensive cocaine-like effects in the body.

Signs and symptoms of abuse :

• Mood changes
• Impaired concentration
• Impaired mental functioning
• Swings between apathy and alertness

Health effects :

• Increased heart and respiratory rates
• Elevated blood pressure
• Sweating
• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Sleeplessness and anxiety
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Tremors
• Poor coordination
• Physical collapse

Workplace issues :

• Employees who fall under Federal guidelines such as the Department of Transportation’s testing regulations are prohibited from using amphetamines without a current prescription.
• The addictive nature and cost can lead to workplace theft and/or dealing.
• Work performance is erratic with periods of high performance and periods characterized by forgetfulness, absenteeism and missed assignments.

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