Investigating the Correlations between Frequency of ADHD Medication Use with Perception, Dependence, and Undesired Side Effects

ADHD medications are widely used by students across college campuses in order to enhance academic performance and concentration. Often times, students use these medications illicitly and are unaware of the side effects that may be caused by use. This study collected survey based data from 879 college aged students in the Northeast United States in order to better understand the scope, causes, and effects of the misuse of ADHD medications. Data was collected using a Google Survey and analyzed using Pearson\u27s Correlation Coefficient in SPSS, Version 25.0. Our results revealed significant correlations between frequency of ADHD medication use and perception of these types of medications. Specifically, use of ADHD medication about once a day was significantly correlated with nearly all of the undesired side effects inquired about in the survey, including panic attacks, aggression, and headaches. Despite experiencing these side effects, the about once a day users reported that they still perceived Adderall and similar medications to be more safe than caffeine and marijuana use. These findings shed light on the implications of ADHD medication use and suggest that outreach activities are needed to promote awareness on side effects of misuse.https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_spring2020/1027/thumbnail.jp

Potential Connection Between ADHD Medication Misuse and Risk-Taking Behaviors

ADHD medications (such as Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse) are frequently misused on college campuses to enhance academic performance. Many students are unaware of the adverse effects of the drug. Research shows that ADHD medication misuse is associated with Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) dysfunction, and may lead to impaired decision making abilities. This may lead to riskier decision making by ADHD stimulant-dependent college students. Higher risk taking behaviors are associated with comorbid illicit substance use (such as cocaine, marijuana, prescription painkillers). This study seeks to assess whether ADHD medication misuse correlates with risk-taking behaviors. An anonymous survey including questions on frequency of ADHD, alcohol and illicit drug use was completed by 863 college students. Data was analyzed using Pearson\u27s Correlation Coefficient in SPSS Version 25.0. Results revealed significant positive correlations between alcohol, cocaine and/or marijuana use and once a day, once a month, and once a year ADHD medication use. There were also positive correlations depicted between cocaine and recreational prescription painkiller use and not being dissuaded by any information against taking ADHD medications - including evidence for negative physiological effects, real life stories about ADHD medication use, or even negative personal effects experienced. These behaviors suggest potential PFC dysfunction in college students illicitly using ADHD medications.https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_spring2020/1073/thumbnail.jp