THE INDISCRIMINATE USE OF METHYLPHENIDATE FOR COGNITIVE IMPROVEMENT BY YOUNG PEOPLE

Abstract

The indiscriminate use of methylphenidate, popularly known by trade names such as Ritalina®️ and Concerta®️, has been growing among young people, especially college students, who seek to improve their academic performance. This substance, originally indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), acts as a stimulant of the central nervous system, providing increased concentration and reduced sleep. However, its consumption without a prescription poses serious health risks, such as chemical dependency, anxiety disorders, insomnia, and other adverse effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the consequences of the use of methylphenidate by young people, focusing on the health effects and sociocultural factors that encourage its consumption, in addition to highlighting the role of the pharmacist in raising awareness about the risks of this consumption. This is a qualitative, descriptive and exploratory bibliographic research, which was carried out based on searches for articles in the Scielo (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and Google Scholar databases with the descriptors: “uso indiscriminado”, “jovens”, “uso abusivo”, “metilfenidato” and “atenção farmacêutica” published between 2019 and 2024, with the final sample of this review consisting of ten scientific articles. Thus, it was observed that the unregulated use of methylphenidate by young people represents a public health problem, driven by academic pressure and gaps in marketing control. The lack of medical monitoring aggravates the risks to mental and physical health. The role of the pharmacist is highlighted as essential in guiding and preventing inappropriate use, requiring greater supervision of sales and educational campaigns.