Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that temporarily increase alertness, attention, and energy levels by boosting the activity of certain chemicals in the brain. These substances can be naturally occurring or manufactured, and are often used to enhance mental performance or combat tiredness. Common stimulants include caffeine found in coffee, nicotine in tobacco, and more potent examples like amphetamines and cocaine.
In a medical context, stimulants are also prescribed to treat conditions such as ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and narcolepsy. They help increase focus and control impulses in individuals diagnosed with these conditions. However, while stimulants can be beneficial when used correctly under medical supervision, they also carry the risk of dependency and potential side effects such as nervousness, insomnia, and increased heart rate.
Recreational use of stimulants can lead to misuse and addiction, highlighting the importance of responsible use and awareness of their effects. Understanding how stimulants work and their potential risks and benefits is key to making informed decisions about their use.
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Absence from work is when an employee is not present during scheduled working hours due to various reasons like illness or personal commitments.
Acetaminophen is a common medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever, often found in over-the-counter and prescription products.
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to pimples and other lesions.
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is a serious heart condition where blood flow to the heart is suddenly reduced, requiring immediate medical attention.
"Acute" refers to a medical condition that appears suddenly and resolves over a short time.
Acyclovir is a medication used to treat infections caused by certain viruses like herpes and shingles, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.
Adalimumab is a medication used to treat inflammatory conditions by reducing inflammation through targeting specific proteins in the body.
Addiction is a compulsive engagement with substances or behaviors that negatively impact one's life.
Addison's disease is a rare condition leading to insufficient hormone production by the adrenal glands, causing symptoms like fatigue and low blood pressure.
ADHD is a common condition affecting attention, impulse control, and activity level, characterized by symptoms like distractibility, impulsivity, and restlessness.
ADL (activities of daily living) refers to essential daily self-care tasks, crucial for maintaining independence and well-being.
The adrenal glands are small, triangle-shaped organs on top of the kidneys that produce hormones essential for stress response, metabolism, and blood pressure regulation.
Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a hormone and medication that helps the body respond to stress and is used in medical emergencies, like severe allergic reactions.
An allergen is a substance that can trigger an allergic reaction in certain people.
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An allergist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats allergies and related immune system reactions.
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ALP (alkaline phosphatase) is an enzyme found in the body that helps in protein breakdown, with its levels indicating liver and bone health.
Alprazolam is a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by calming the brain through its effects on natural chemicals in the body.
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