What is a primary effect of using stimulants such as cocaine?

What is a primary effect of using stimulants such as cocaine?

• A. Decreased physical activity
• B. Increased heart rate
• C. Induction of sleep
• D. Reduction in mental alertness

Answer: (B)

The primary effect of using stimulants such as cocaine is an increased heart rate. Stimulants work by enhancing dopamine signaling in the brain, which increases arousal and energy levels leading to heightened physical activity and alertness. This heightened state of alertness results in physiological changes such as an increase in heart rate. Unlike stimulants, which energize and activate the central nervous system, other effects associated with drugs like cocaine—such as sedation and reduced mental alertness—are characteristic of depressants rather than stimulants. Therefore, the physiological impact on the cardiovascular system, specifically the elevation in heart rate, directly correlates with the stimulant properties of cocaine.

The primary effect of using stimulants such as cocaine is an increased heart rate. Stimulants work by enhancing dopamine signaling in the brain, which increases arousal and energy levels leading to heightened physical activity and alertness. This heightened state of alertness results in physiological changes such as an increase in heart rate.

Unlike stimulants, which energize and activate the central nervous system, other effects associated with drugs like cocaine—such as sedation and reduced mental alertness—are characteristic of depressants rather than stimulants. Therefore, the physiological impact on the cardiovascular system, specifically the elevation in heart rate, directly correlates with the stimulant properties of cocaine.