Adderall is a clinical drug prescribed to treat symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). When taken by people who have no attention deficit condition, many students discover it increases their mental process speed, allowing them to stay awake and study for hours, avoiding distractions like hunger or boredom. According to a Medscape study, nonmedical use of Adderall is increasing, particularly by college students.
Adderall is a stimulant, so it has many dangerous side effects such as increasing heart rate. It keeps users awake and creates a harsh crash effect when the drug wears off. In severe cases, Adderall can cause seizures, comas or even death, three things definitely not worth risking for a higher grade. Officials at Shands treat students for Adderall reactions every semester, and adamantly advise against it unless you have a prescription.
Adderall abuse changes brain chemistry and can be addictive. Frequent users who started taking the drug just for exams eventually find themselves taking it just to sit through classes. It can cause difficulty sleeping and nausea after abuse, and students who have become accustomed to Adderall in their systems may experience symptoms of withdrawal as it leaves their bloodstream. According to the Huffington Post, Adderall is a gateway drug, often leading to other “uppers,” such as cocaine.
Remember, buying and selling Adderall on the black market is illegal. If caught by authorities, buyers and sellers can be heavily fined or even sent to jail.
Even when pulling an all-nighter as midterms seem to take over our lives this month, don’t give in to taking Adderall. Choose to make smart and healthy study decisions instead, and you can still excel in class and make the grades you want.
Sources:
“Adderall: The Most Abused Prescription Drug in America”. Dr. Ricker and Dr, Nicolino. The Huffington Post.
“College Students and Adderall: What’s Going On?” Dr. Ferri. Medscape