Nonmedical use of prescription drugs is defined as using a prescription drug that is not prescribed to you, or using your own prescription in a way that is inconsistent with the doctor’s prescribing instructions (ex: using too much, using too often, taking the drug is a way that is different from what the doctor recommended)
The most common class of prescription drug used by college students nonmedically is prescription stimulants (i.e. Ritalin, Adderall, etc.)
Why do students use stimulants nonmedically?
Why do students use stimulants nonmedically?
Students think prescription stimulants will help them stay awake, help them focus, improve their concentration, or make it easier to study.
Students believe Adderall and Ritalin are “smart drugs” that increase academic performance.
What’s the reality?
What’s the reality?
Students who use prescription stimulants nonmedically perform worse on tests and earn lower GPAs than students who don’t.
Prescription stimulants are used to treat medical conditions like ADD and ADHD – they can’t make you smarter
If you think you would benefit from a prescription talk to a doctor – they can evaluate your medical history and other drugs you’re taking and select a prescription that’s right for you