What might increased heart rate indicate when associated with substance use?

Increased heart rate is often associated with the use of stimulants. Stimulants, such as cocaine or amphetamines, typically lead to an increase in heart rate due to their effect on the central nervous system. While marijuana, depending on the strain and individual response, may also lead to an increased heart rate, this is more variable and not as reliably indicative as it would be with stimulants.

The other options involve substances that do not typically lead to increased heart rates. Depressants generally decrease heart rate, which would not align with the idea of an increased heart rate. Alcohol consumption can lead to varied heart rate responses depending on quantity and context, but it does not consistently cause an increase like stimulants do.

Thus, focusing on the clear link between certain substances and their physiological effects is crucial for understanding the question at hand. While marijuana can potentially increase heart rate for some users, the connection is not as strong or predictable as it would be for substances classified as stimulants.