Nonmedical use of prescription stimulants among students

Despite the caveats discussed above, national epidemiologic surveys are useful in estimating the prevalence and historical trends of nonmedical use of prescription stimulants. Because it would be difficult and cost-prohibitive to ask several more in-depth questions on these national surveys, other smaller-scale research studies should be undertaken to understand more about the patterns and consequences of nonmedical use of prescription stimulants. The data from the few studies of college students suggest college students are more likely to use prescription stimulants than their noncollege-attending counterparts and suggest college students may experience a need to stay awake to study given the high level of demands in the college environment. More and more people are taking advantage of the opportunity to go to college, making the selection process more competitive. More data are needed regarding the availability of prescription stimulants on college campuses and, in particular, the availability and use of other types of prescription stimulants other than methylphenidate. Data from the college studies presented here also suggest that, in addition to using prescription stimulants as a study aid, students use prescription stimulants to stay awake longer to party or drink more. Because heavy drinking is known to be associated with a wide variety of negative consequences, it is important to learn more about this particular interaction so that appropriate prevention initiatives can be developed.