Study drugs are also popularly known as brain dope and academic steroids. They are prescription stimulants usually taken by students to enhance focus and concentration while studying.
- Common study drugs are Amphetamine used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD).
- These drugs are obtained from friends or siblings using them for medical purposes. Teenagers have also been known to feign symptoms of ADHD to get these drugs.
- These drugs behave like neurotransmitters and actually increase the activity levels of chemicals like dopamine, serotonin and epinephrine. They enhance energy level, make a person more alert and more capable of focusing and performing better. But these effects are temporary.
- These drugs have to be prescribed after assessment for any cardiac conditions, started at low doses and increments and keeping an eye on side effects. If misused, they have serious cardiac and psychiatric side effects like dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, restlessness, high BP, increased heart attack and sudden death also.
- Once a teen understands the potential risks on these prescription medicines, certain steps can be taken to improve focus and concentration. Some of the best alternatives to study drugs : (i) Adequate sleep (ii) Effective time management (iii) Healthy food eating habits (iv) Seeking support of teachers / parents to improve study skills & (v) Regular physical activity like physical exercises, walking, jogging etc.
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