Analyzing The Connection Between Illicit ADHD Medication Use and Caffeine Use

Over the past decade, the illicit use of ADHD medication has become an increasingly popular method for students on college campuses believing that it will boost their academic performance. The use of such drugs in an academic setting has been shown to temporarily increase one\u27s ability to concentrate and study efficiency. Caffeine is another substance widely consumed by college students that supports focus and concentration. Both caffeine and ADHD medications are considered stimulants, although caffeine is a weaker form. Stimulants have been described to prime the brain for further stimulant use. As part of a larger study, we investigate whether the use of caffeine is correlated with ADHD medication use. An anonymous survey was shared on social media targeting U.S. college students. Demographic questions included gender, age, major, and academic class. Other questions asked were about the use of illicit ADHD medication, frequency, and perception. Over 500 undergraduate students from campuses across the Northeast completed the survey. Data was collected using a Google survey and analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient in SPSS, Version 25.0. Data collection is still going on. Our results suggest that there might be an association between high caffeine use and use of stimulants.https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_2021/1027/thumbnail.jp

The Association between ADHD Drug Misuse and Other Psycho-Substance Abuse

Across North America, the abuse of ADHD medication on college campuses has become an increasingly prevalent problem, as students are becoming more acquainted with their potential as study aid. Previous research has revealed that students who use ADHD medication in college are significantly more likely to develop a dependence on alcohol and other drugs than those who have never taken ADHD medication. The purpose of this study is to assess whether there is a relationship between ADHD medication use and other psycho-substance use such as depressants and stimulants. This study has collected survey responses from 761 undergraduate students from various US colleges. The survey included self-reported dietary patterns, mental and physical health, ADHD medication use, and perceptions regarding illicit study drug use. The anonymous survey was built in Google forms, data was analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient in SPSS, Version 26.0. Our data has indicated a significant positive correlation between illicit ADHD medication use with depressants and stimulants (caffeine) among college students. Our results support previous studies that described how a dysfunctional prefrontal cortex (PFC) is linked to impaired response inhibition and riskier decision making, such as the comorbid use of other stimulants and depressants. Thus, our results suggest that those who use ADHD medication may be inclined to abuse other substances as well. By addressing the abuse of study drugs on college campuses, we may hope to curtail the abuse of other prevalent substances among college populations.https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_2022/1117/thumbnail.jp

Potential Negative Cyclical Effects of ADHD Medication, Mental Health, and Academic Performance

In the past decade, the misuse of non-prescription ADHD medication among college students for the goal of achieving academic success has seen a marked increase. In order to determine if there is a relationship between study drugs, mental health, and GPA, an anonymous survey was distributed asking participants questions regarding demographics, prescribed and non-prescribed Adderall use, its effects, and perceptions. A total of 879 college-aged students from several US colleges completed the survey. Using Pearson\u27s Correlation Coefficient, there was a positive correlation between using non-prescribed Adderall use and a decrease in GPA, as well as a negative impact on mental health. The survey also showed that those who have a lower GPA exhibited several mental health symptoms, suggesting that there could be a vicious cycle at hand: non-prescribed study drugs, low GPA, and negative impact on mental health all act reciprocally, inexorably worsening the effects of the drug. Our results may indicate a lack of knowledge among non-prescribed users about the effects of Adderall, demonstrating a need for education outreach and alternative study methods. Data was collected from a multiple-choice survey and analyzed using SPSS, Version 25.0.https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_spring2020/1041/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