Drug Misuse

Drug Misuse

Between 4 and 10% of college students are living with attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder, a developmental condition that affects the ability to concentrate on tasks for an extended period of time. A comprehensive treatment program that includes academic support, cognitive behavioural therapy and prescription medications can help manage the symptoms of this condition, improve the student’s alertness and performance, and help them succeed in their studies.

The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are a family of drugs called stimulants. These include methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin) or amphetamine (e.g. Adderall). Some students who are not diagnosed with ADHA try to obtain these medications for recreational use because they believe it will improve their academic performance. However, many of these students may be unaware of the possible negative effects of misusing and abusing these drugs, including physical, psychological and legal consequences.

What negative effects?

A drug is misused if taken without a prescription or in a manner different from the way it was meant to be taken. There are potential negative consequences of misusing stimulants.

Negative physical effects of stimulate use include: abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, heart palpitations, irregular heart beat, and high blood pressure which can cause other life-threatening consequences such as heart attack or stroke. Combing stimulants with alcohol or other medications (prescribed or not) can lead to toxicity (poisoning) and overdose.

Addiction can develop if stimulants are misused. Problems can include: disrupted relationships; missed work or classes because of the negative medical effects of the drug abuse; financial burdens; and neglect of responsibilities. An addiction can interfere with a person’s ability to succeed in school and in life.

Negative psychological effects of stimulant misuse include: trouble sleeping; confusion; hallucinations; unusual behaviors (such as repeating actions); delusions, paranoia, and psychosis and worsening of symptoms of pre-existing psychiatric conditions.

Legal consequences: Under the Criminal Code of Canada, a person who gives or sells his or her prescription stimulants is committing the crime of trafficking. The punishment for this crime can be up to life in prison! Similarly having a drug without a prescription is considered possession. Punishment for possession of stimulants such as Ritalin without a prescription is $1000 fine and /or 6 months in jail.

We don’t frequently hear of such serious punishments being handed out. However, it is important to know where the law stands on these issues. If a person is charges, the criminal record will follow then for the rest of their life. This can interfere with future education, job opportunities and even travel plans, as some countries refuse entry of people who have a criminal record.

What about students who have a prescription?

            Students who are taking these medications as prescribed by their doctor and as part of a comprehensive ADHD treatment program do not commonly develop negative effects. This is because the medication is used as it was meant to be used, and the student is monitored by their physician for any early signs of potential problems, which can be dealt with before they develop.

Do study drugs work?

In the end, “study drugs” will not do the research nor write the paper for you. They will not improve the caliber of your writing nor pull your ideas together. In order to grasp a mathematical or scientific concept you still have to work through problems and “study drugs” won’t do the work for you. Concentration is only a small part of academic success. Other factors that contribute to doing well in school include: using the library, using your text book, connecting with your professor, being organized, organizing your ideas, getting enough sleep and leading a healthy lifestyle.

What this means for you?

If you are struggling to keep up with your classes, or having difficulty in school, there are a number of resources for you. Laurier’s learning Services can help you improve your academic skills and learning potential. Check out these web sites:

Central Academic Advising Office:  www.wlu.ca/academicadvising

Mathematics Assistance Centre: www.wlu.ca/mac

Study Skills and Supplemental Instruction Centre: www.wlu.ca/study

Writing Centre: www.wlu.ca/writingcentre

If you would like more information on ADHD visit Health Services or speak to someone in Counselling http://waterloo.mylaurier.ca/counselling/info/home.htm

Source: Concordia Health Services October 2006