central nervous system stimulant, a substance that quickens the activity of the central nervous system by increasing the rate of neuronal discharge or by blocking an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Many natural and synthetic compounds stimulate the central nervous system, but only a few are used therapeutically. Caffeine, a potent central nervous system stimulant, is used to help restore mental alertness and overcome respiratory depression, but it may cause nausea, nervousness, tinnitus, tremor, tachycardia, extrasystoles, diuresis, and visual disturbances. Amphetamines, sympathomimetic amines with central nervous system stimulating activity, are used in treating narcolepsy and obesity, but these drugs have a high potential for abuse and may cause dizziness, restlessness, tachycardia, increased blood pressure, headache, mouth dryness, an unpleasant taste, GI symptoms, and urticaria. Various amphetamines, especially deanol acetamidobenzoate, a precursor of acetylcholine, are prescribed for hyperkinetic child syndrome because central nervous system stimulants may act as depressants in children. Doxapram is used to stimulate the respiratory center and restore consciousness after anesthesia and to treat acute sedative-hypnotic intoxication. Also called analeptic.
