Topline
An intriguing study published in Science Advances reveals that college students who use prescription stimulants as “smart” drugs without having attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may actually experience a decrease in productivity and an increase in task completion time.
Misusing prescription stimulants like Adderall can hinder productivity. (Photo by Vince … [+]
Toronto Star via Getty Images
Key Facts
The study involved 40 participants aged 18-35 who were given different prescription stimulants, including 30 mg of methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta), 15 mg of dextroamphetamine (Adderall), 200 mg of modafinil (Provigil), or a placebo. The testing sessions were conducted at least a week apart.
Participants were then required to perform various tasks to assess their problem-solving skills, reaction time, spatial planning, and working memory.
The results showed that using these “smart” drugs actually led to a decrease in performance on difficult tasks and problem solving.
While the drugs did enhance participants’ motivation, they also increased the time spent on problem-solving by 50%. Surprisingly, there was no corresponding improvement in performance.
Interestingly, participants’ efforts increased while under the influence of the stimulants, but the quality of their efforts decreased. Their decisions became more random and less calculated.
Furthermore, the study observed a reversal effect, where participants who performed above average with a placebo performed below average when taking the stimulants.
Key Background
ADHD is a neurological disorder characterized by inattentiveness, over-impulsiveness, and hyperactivity. Prescription stimulants like methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and modafinil are commonly prescribed to individuals with ADHD. In the United States, approximately 4.4% (10.5 million) of adults have ADHD. These drugs regulate dopamine levels in specific brain regions responsible for functions such as decision-making and emotional processing. Modafinil is also known to improve sleep and alertness. For the study, participants with no history of drug use, psychiatric or neurological disorders, heart conditions, high blood pressure, pregnancy, or glaucoma were selected. They were instructed to avoid alcohol and caffeine before the testing sessions.
Tangent
An in-depth report published by the University of Pennsylvania in 2011 analyzed various studies on the impact of stimulants on non-prescribed individuals. The findings were mixed, with some studies showing enhancement in learning and working memory, while others demonstrated no cognitive improvements and even impairments. A separate report from 2017 focused specifically on college students and found no cognitive improvement in learning or memory when using stimulants compared to a placebo.
Big Number
According to a 2021 report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Advisory, 45.2% of young adults aged 18-25 misused prescription stimulants in the past year.
Tangent
Since October 2022, there has been a shortage of DEX, one of the components of Adderall, as listed by the Food and Drug Administration. The shortage is attributed to increased demand. Manufacturing delays and labor shortages at Teva, the main supplier of Adderall, were reported earlier this year, affecting the supply of the drug. Teva is estimated to have $14.9 billion in revenue.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
