Adderall can be referred to as the "study drug" by college students across the United States. The drug causes effects similar to those of energy drinks, but allowing one to go beyond their normal mental capacity, finishing studying or assignments faster and more efficiently. The drug is available as an instant release, which lasts 4 to 6 hours, or extended release, which lasts 8 to 10 hours. Many are abusing the medication in order to cram for exams and finish assignments on time. Adderall is known as a schedule two drug, which means that there is a large potential for abuse. The abuse can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
If Adderall causes such negative effects, why are thousands of students across the United States using this drug?
Society's expectations of college students is one of the major answers to this question. While in college, students are expected to get good grades, become involved in clubs and activities, and maintain a job/volunteer. With that, many students put themselves at risk in order to obtain the greatest benefit.
One of the largest risks that a student can take is buying Adderall from another student. This can cause many problems due to medical need, which can then get one in trouble with law enforcement. Adderall is used for people with ADHD - known at as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, and people with this disorder require a need for the medication to function at a normal rate. For those that take the medication without ADHD, they will experience heightened effects, but the medication is not necessary for them to function normally. With that being said, if a student that does not have a medical need buys the medication from someone that is prescribed, they may experience negative effects, which puts the buyer, as well as seller, in danger with the law if anything were to happen.
Another risk of the drug is the tolerance that can be developed over time. Adderall works by increasing dopamine levels, which causes the extreme positive effects that one may feel. Over time, physical dependence develops and people may have to take it just to feel like their normal self. Physical side effects have also been known to increase heart rate and blood pressure. Another popular effect that Adderall has on college students, is the effect that it can have on a person's weight. The drug contains amphetamine, which is known to suppress appetite. This effect can contribute to many college students mental health. Eating disorders are a prominent mental health issue in our society, with the weight loss effects that Adderall has shown to be true, it is making the problem grow larger. If someone that takes Adderall regularly is complimented on their weight loss, they feel more confident in themselves and will want to lose more weight, therefore, abusing the drug.
The abuse of Adderall is causing major problems to college students across the United States. With studies showing more nonmedical use, as well as emergency room visits due to abuse, this proves that students are willing to risk it all in order to perform to expectations. For Adderall abuse in college students to decrease, society's expectations of college students must change.
