ICD-11

Disorders due to use of stimulants including amphetamines, methamphetamine or methcathinone are characterised by the pattern and consequences of use of these substances. There is a wide array of naturally occurring and synthetically produced psychostimulants other than cocaine. The most numerous of this group are the amphetamine-type substances, including methamphetamine. Prescribed stimulants including dexamphetamine are indicated for a limited number of conditions such as for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Methcathinone, known in many countries as ephedrone, is a synthetic potent stimulant that is a structural analogue of methamphetamine and is related to cathinone. All these drugs have primarily psychostimulant properties and are also vasoconstrictors to a varying degree. They induce euphoria and hyperactivity as may be seen in Stimulant Intoxication. They have potent dependence-producing properties, which may lead to the diagnosis of Stimulant Dependence and Stimulant Withdrawal following the cessation of use. Several Stimulant-Induced Mental Disorders are described.

Stimulant-induced delirium including amphetamines, methamphetamine and methcathinone but excluding caffeine, cocaine and synthetic cathinones is characterised by an acute state of disturbed attention and awareness with specific features of delirium that develops during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or during the use of stimulants. The amount and duration of stimulant use must be capable of producing delirium. The symptoms are not better explained by a primary mental disorder, by use of or withdrawal from a different substance, or by another health condition that is not classified under Mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders.