Stims

Kat's stims from the episode "Final Cut".

Nothing yet is known of the chemical composition of the stimulant known as Stims, or if the term refers to one substance or a class of several. It may simply be an abbreviation of "stimulant".

They were in high use in the first series episode, 33, as the Battlestar Galactica pilots were forced to use them in an attempt to stay alert after four continuous days on Condition One and Two Alert Status.

Kara Thrace believed that Stims dulled her flying skills, and refused to take hers initially until ordered by her CAG, Lee Adama.

Overuse or overdosing on Stims can cause irrational, violent, and psychotic behavior. Viper Cadet Louanne Katraine severely damaged her Viper and injured herself when her Stim use reached a point where she could barely fly or understand instructions.

In real life, stimulants, usually amphetamines, are used by combat pilots to maintain alertness.