PHARMACIST'S PERSPECTIVE ON THE USE OF RITALIN BY ACADEMICS

Abstract

It is notorious that the use of methylphenidate by academics has increased over the years, this increase is due to the “beneficial” effects that Ritalin can provide to students despite the drug not having a prescription for this purpose. Ritalin's active ingredient is methylphenidate, which is classified as a psychostimulant, used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults, which consumed in correct doses, can help in the treatment, contributing to the performance of tasks. This research aims to investigate the use of Ritalin and self-medication by higher education students, the possible side effects and consequences of the use of Ritalin, highlighting the need for further investigation on the use of Ritalin by students, especially long-term.