USE OF PSYCHOSTIMULANT DRUGS FOR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS AT A PRIVATE UNIVERSITY IN WESTERN PARANÁ: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND ETHICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study investigates the use of psychostimulant medications to enhance academic performance among medical students at a private university in Western Paraná, focusing on an epidemiological and ethical analysis. The research was conducted with 90 students, using a structured questionnaire to collect data on prevalence, usage patterns, reasons for use, and students' perceptions. The results indicated that a significant portion of the students use psychostimulants, primarily methylphenidate, with the goal of increasing concentration and study time. The main reported reasons include academic pressure and the need for high performance. However, many students also expressed concerns about the adverse effects and ethical implications of using these medications for non-medical purposes. This study highlights the need for a broader debate on the use of psychostimulants in the academic environment, as well as the implementation of policies and educational interventions to mitigate the associated risks.