What is a Stimulant?
Stimulants are drugs that increase activity in the brain and body. They often make people feel more energetic, alert, or awake. Common stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamine (meth), and some prescription medications (Adderall).
Illegal stimulants may contain fentanyl. This increases the risk of an overdose.
Naloxone is a lifesaving medication that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose. Always call 911 and give naloxone if someone is unconscious after consuming drugs, even if you don’t know if they consumed opioids.
Stimulants and Your Health
A stimulant overdose is called “overamping.” Your risk of a stimulant overdose changes based on the type of drug, the dose, and your own biology
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Symptoms of a stimulant overdose often include overheating, heart attacks, strokes, and not breathing.
Sometimes, people who use stimulants can feel strong paranoia, agitation, depression, or fear. They may also see, feel, or hear things that aren’t real (hallucinations).
Long term stimulant use can harm the heart and brain. Stimulant use can lead to high blood pressure and heart disease.
Signs of a Stimulant Overdose & How to Help
Oregon Data
Stimulant drugs are common in overdose deaths in Oregon. In 2024, 68% of fatal overdoses involved a stimulant. Almost half of all overdose deaths in Oregon included both methamphetamine and fentanyl.
The most common stimulant in Oregon is methamphetamine, but cocaine is also present in the illicit drug supply.
Find more information on what substances are involved in overdoses on our data dashboard.