INDISCRIMINATE USE OF PSYCHOSTIMULANTS FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

Psychostimulant substances, in addition to having antidepressant properties and improving mood and cognitive abilities, can increase alertness and motivation. Comply with legal aspects and include in the discipline medications controlled by ordinance number 344/98, which regulates medications and substances subject to special control. Methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine are controlled substances that fall under list A3 of the ordinance. Both are used to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Among others, it is defined as a neurodevelopmental condition that presents the following symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity. Drug therapies used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate hydrochloride and lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. However, the use of these over-the-counter substances by healthy college students is increasing with the aim of improving cognitive performance, especially during periods of study and high stress.