Behavioral Medicine – Substance Use Disorders Practice Test

Stimulant intoxication is marked by signs of increased sympathetic nervous system activity after using stimulants like cocaine or amphetamines. Pupillary dilation, or mydriasis, is a classic observable indicator of this sympathetic surge. It’s a specific, measurable sign that clinicians look for when identifying stimulant intoxication, reflecting the body's heightened adrenergic state.

Tachycardia can occur with stimulant use, but it’s less specific and can appear in many other conditions as well. Weight gain is not typical of stimulant intoxication—these drugs more often cause weight loss. Hypotension is not characteristic; stimulants tend to raise blood pressure rather than lower it.