Psychostimulants and other drugs used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Abstract

The term psychostimulants (synonym stimulants) refers to a group of psychopharmacological agents whose predominant effect is the enhancement of cognitive and behavioral functions by stimulation of the central nervous system (CNS). In healthy humans, they relieve feelings of tiredness and languor, elevate mood, as well as improve concentration and performance. In animals, psychostimulants increase locomotor activity and are readily self-administered due to their powerful reinforcing properties.