Prevalence of the use of prescription stimulants as “study drugs” by UK university students: A brief report

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionThere is media concern over students using prescription stimulants as “cognitive enhancers” to try and improve their academic performance. However, there is limited evidence about the prevalence of this behaviour in the United Kingdom, or whether it has increased in recent years.MethodsWe review survey studies on students' use of cognitive enhancers.ResultsOverall reported use is low, with some inconclusive evidence that it is increasing. Use of modafinil appears to be higher than that of methylphenidate or dexamphetamine.ConclusionThere is a clear need for large‐scale research in this area, using representative sampling and survey methods that protect student anonymity.