Academic Performance Pressure and Methylphenidate Consumption: Insights From Wastewater-Based Epidemiology
Natan Van Wichelen1, Tim Boogaerts1, Guido Van Hal2
1Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
Drug Testing and Analysis
|May 13, 2026
Summary
Methylphenidate (MPH) use for cognitive enhancement by students increased during exams, as shown by wastewater analysis. This suggests academic pressure drives non-prescribed MPH consumption, necessitating public health interventions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Forensic Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Methylphenidate (MPH) is a common ADHD treatment.
- Non-prescribed MPH use for cognitive enhancement among students is debated.
- Limited consumption-based data exist for MPH, relying mostly on self-reports.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess population-level MPH consumption using wastewater epidemiology.
- To investigate the link between academic pressure and MPH use in students.
- To triangulate wastewater data with student survey data.
Main Methods:
- Wastewater-based epidemiology measuring ritalinic acid (MPH biomarker).
- Analysis of 679 influent wastewater samples from Leuven and Brussels (2021-2022).
- Triangulation with student survey data.
Main Results:
- MPH consumption doubled in Leuven during exam periods and rose during preparation periods.
- Minimal MPH consumption fluctuations were observed in Brussels.
- Student population percentage correlated with MPH consumption patterns.
Conclusions:
- Academic performance pressure is strongly linked to MPH use among students.
- Wastewater analysis provides objective consumption data.
- Targeted pharmacovigilance and public health interventions are recommended for students.
Keywords:
academic performance pressurecognitive enhancersinfluent wastewatermethylphenidatestudent populationwastewater‐based epidemiologyMore Related Videos
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