Common ADHD Drugs Abused by Students Looking to Excel

A growing trend in teen drug abuse has left educators and parents scratching their heads; Adderall and Ritalin abuse among students worried about educational gains has lately become a concern due to the fact that ADHD patients are finding that the drugs they take daily have become high demand illegal substances. The sale of ADHD medicines on the black market has increased with teens discovering that Adderall use among non ADHD affected teens results in improved concentration and presumably improved test scores.

Adderall is a stimulant used to tread ADHD and narcolepsy as well as certain types of depression. It is reported that Adderall blocks the reabsorption of dopamine and Norepinephrine so it can be in the body longer. At the same time, it releases these chemicals into the brain. The increase helps a person concentrate and focus, hence the reason behind its abuse as a study aid.

Both teens and college students have been reported to increase Adderall use and abuse. Its ability to help maintain focus for extended amounts of time, and helps those trying to lose weight by its appetite suppressing side affect. Both information retention and an increase in the amount of study time make Adderall a highly sought drug during finals times.

Adderall and other amphetamines have a few side affects, which can increase after a period of use. Paranoia, appetite suppression, insomnia, heart rate and blood pressure changes, and increased hypertension are all side affects reported from Adderall abuse. Some report the suicide rate is increased in frequent amphetamine users. The going rate for black market Adderall can be as high as $5 a pill.