What type of stimulant is classified as a central nervous system stimulant?

Amphetamine is classified as a central nervous system stimulant because it acts on the central nervous system to increase alertness, attention, and energy. This class of drugs elevates the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which influence mood, perception, and cognitive function.

In medical contexts, amphetamines are often prescribed for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy due to their ability to enhance focus and reduce fatigue. The stimulant effects of amphetamine can lead to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and heightened alertness, which are characteristic of central nervous system stimulants.

Other options present substances that do not fit this classification. Cocaine, while also a stimulant, is typically categorized separately due to its different mechanisms and legal status. Marijuana is primarily known as a psychoactive substance but acts as a depressant and does not have the stimulating properties associated with amphetamines. Alcohol is a depressant that slows down brain function rather than stimulating it. Therefore, among the options provided, amphetamine is the only one that aligns with the definition of a central nervous system stimulant.