In the Feb. 24 issue of the Alligator, Maureen Mariano brought some attention to the problem of Adderall abuse on college campuses. Pointing out safe alternatives to “study drugs” is important, but there is still more that should be said about the consequences of misusing medications like Adderall.
For one, the legal consequences can be severe. Adderall and the other stimulants used to treat ADHD are schedule II substances. That means they are among the most controlled substances one can prescribe.
Selling or distributing these medications is illegal and can lead to felony charges. You can be arrested and put in jail.
The consequences for other students’ health may be significant. These medications can be effective treatments for ADHD, and for a great majority of people, they are very safe.
However, for some susceptible people, they can cause some severe problems, including paranoia, accelerated heart rate and sudden death.
A physician needs to evaluate, prescribe and monitor your response to the medication. Used correctly, these medications help many people lead more productive lives.
However, misusing these medications may leave you with a lot more to worry about than tomorrow’s exam.
Elias H. Sarkis M.D.
Eric Dutton M.A.
Sarkis Family Psychiatry
