Abstracto

The chemistry of psychostimulants and neurotransmitter transporters

Ellen Paul

Psychostimulants are drugs that stimulate the central nervous system and enhance cognitive function, alertness, and wakefulness. They are commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Examples of psychostimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamines (Adderall), and cocaine. These drugs exert their effects by targeting neurotransmitter transporters, which are proteins that regulate the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.