Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines, and MDMA
Martha S. Rosenthal
Drugs April 1, 2026 DOI: 10.1093/hesc/9780197841402.003.0006 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | MDMA |
| Key findings | Argues that stimulants like cocaine, amphetamines, and MDMA have significant medical and recreational roles but carry substantial addiction and health risks, with treatment options available. |
Abstract
This chapter examines the pharmacology, effects, and history of stimulants, focusing on cocaine, amphetamines, MDMA, and other related substances. Cocaine plays a significant role as a medical marvel and recreational drug, available in forms such as powder and crack, which differ in potency and methods of use. Amphetamines, initially praised for their therapeutic benefits, gain attention for their potent, long-lasting effects and widespread misuse. MDMA is a stimulant which can also be classified as a psychedelic, or an empathogen-enactogen; its chemical base is an amphetamine, and it has a similar mechanism of action. The chapter also explores other stimulants like khat, bath salts, and captagon, noting their increasing popularity and associated health risks. Finally, the chapter explores the health and societal impacts of stimulant use, emphasizing their addiction potential and available treatment options.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on MDMA, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Pharmacology of MDMA | 2004 | Review | |
| Human psychopharmacology of Ecstasy (MDMA): a review of 15 years of empirical research | 2001 | Review | |
| 3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “Ecstasy”): pharmacology and toxicology in animals and humans | 1994 | Review | |
| (±)3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (‘Ecstasy’)-Induced Serotonin Neurotoxicity: Studies in Animals | 2000 | Review | |
| Amphetamine toxicities | 2010 | Review |