Cognitive Enhancers
The dramatic increases in stimulant prescriptions over the last 2
decades have led to their greater environmental availability and
increased risk for diversion and abuse. For those who take these
medications to improve properly diagnosed conditions, they
can be transforming, greatly enhancing a person’s quality of life.
However, because they are perceived by many to be generally
safe and effective, prescription stimulants, such as Concerta or
Adderall, are increasingly being abused to address nonmedical
conditions or situations. Indeed, reports suggest that the practice
is occurring among some academic professionals, athletes,
performers, older people, and both high school and college
students. Such nonmedical cognitive enhancement poses
potential health risks, including addiction, cardiovascular events,
and psychosis.
decades have led to their greater environmental availability and
increased risk for diversion and abuse. For those who take these
medications to improve properly diagnosed conditions, they
can be transforming, greatly enhancing a person’s quality of life.
However, because they are perceived by many to be generally
safe and effective, prescription stimulants, such as Concerta or
Adderall, are increasingly being abused to address nonmedical
conditions or situations. Indeed, reports suggest that the practice
is occurring among some academic professionals, athletes,
performers, older people, and both high school and college
students. Such nonmedical cognitive enhancement poses
potential health risks, including addiction, cardiovascular events,
and psychosis.
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