Stimulant Use Disorder
A Guide for Patients, Families and Friends
Publication Date: November 8, 2023
Last Updated: May 29, 2024
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Addiction is a chronic illness that affects millions of people, as well as their families and communities. Across the United States overdose deaths involving stimulant use have been increasing since 2012. There are now three-times more deaths involving cocaine and twelve-times more deaths involving methamphetamine and similar drugs compared to a decade ago. Stimulants also cause serious long-term health problems including heart problems, mental health problems, and dental problems. Stimulant drugs may also contain fentanyl, which increases overdose risks. In addition, some people inject stimulants which can spread diseases such as HIV and hepatitis.