Study drug, brain boosting drug
Between intense exam sessions and filling out applications to land that killer summer internship. With such chaotic lives, collegiate today are typically professional procrastinators. But what’s a collegiate to do when it’s midnight and he/she hasn’t even started studying for that 8 a.m. exam yet? Several college students across the country have found a risky solution: study drugs.
Study drugs are prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin that are used inappropriately to increase mental focus and productivity for the purpose of studying. Also called “smart drugs,” they are commonly prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Used without a prescription, however, these drugs can be dangerous – not to mention illegal. Despite the risks, about 1 in 5 college students reports using study drugs to get a short-term boost of energy for those dreaded all-nighters.
Study drugs can improve focus and motivation to study, but the short-term benefits of these substances do not come without their fair share of risks. Prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin are designed to give users increased concentration focus. Experts agree that when used appropriately under the guidance of a doctor, they are effective tools to overcome attention disabilities like ADD and ADHD. “For people with ADD or ADHD, these drugs may have a calming effect because the drugs increase dopamine in the brain, and it is believed that ADHD sufferers lack adequate dopamine,” “For those without ADHD, these drugs are more likely to cause restlessness and euphoria because these people already have enough dopamine.” However, the misuse of such drugs can be dangerous, especially when used regularly or combined with alcohol and other drugs. “People who use these drugs only on occasion to study are much more likely to crash once the drug has worn off,” “The crash can cause exhaustion and depression because the body’s energy supplies and dopamine have all been used up.” Along with increasing concentration and focus, study drugs have short-term risks like increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, nervousness, and insomnia. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Adderall can cause hallucinations, impulsive behavior, paranoia, and irritability. These are among a long list of dangerous side effects that probably won’t help with that final tomorrow morning when used by people for whom the drugs are not prescribed!
In addition to the health consequences associated with study drugs, a collegiate who uses these substances could face serious legal consequences like fines, jail time, and suspension from school. Misusing prescription drugs, with or without a prescription, is illegal, as is passing out these substances to others. Additionally, your chances of committing a crime increase when you’re under the influence of drugs.
Dextroamphetamine
Treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. It is also used to treat a type of sleep disorder (narcolepsy). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Dextroamphetamine has a high potential for abuse and may be habit-forming if used for a long period of time. Abuse of dextroamphetamine may cause serious heart problems, blood vessel problems, or sudden death.
How do Students Get These Drugs?
On many college campuses, there is no secretive black market for study drugs because they are often easily attainable. There are two ways to obtain study drugs: you can either get a prescription, or you can make friends with someone who has a prescription and who is willing to dole out doses. Judging from the stories of Richard Fee and Amanda, neither of these options is particularly challenging.
Healthier Alternatives to Study Drugs
Prescription drugs do not have to be the answer for a collegiate`s stressful life. Who needs the dangerous side effects and legal issues, anyway? There are healthy, proactive steps that collegiate can take to keep their academic and professional lives in check without study drugs. Eat a balanced diet, limit caffine intake and get plenty of sleep
Collegiate can also practice relaxation techniques to reduce day-to-day stress. Yoga, for example, has been proven to effectively reduce stress and promote a healthy lifestyle. The key to productivity may also be having fun. Take study breaks and spend time with friends—another way to relax and reenergize for the next study period in your future.
While not concentrating on work can be a natural human tendency, it is important to remember that there are alternative ways of getting an energy boost that do not involve prescription drugs, or any drugs for that matter. Consider sipping on coffee, Mountain Dew, or Red Bull instead of popping pills. These may not be the healthiest strategies, but at least they’re legal!
di Cinthoiba Ngaseppam
Linkografia:
http://www.drugs.com/cdi/dextroamphetamine.html
https://www.erowid.org/chemicals/amphetamines/amphetamines_info2.shtml
