College medical students consume methylphenidate for cognitive enhancement with and without a medical prescription

IntroductionMethylphenidate is used to enhance cognitive enhancement and improve attention and focus by college students. Medical students use methylphenidate due to stress, the volume of information, and the need to succeed. Few studies have evaluated methylphenidate consumption in university students in Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate the use and attitudes of medical students who use methylphenidate at a Brazilian university.MethodsSixty-nine students who use methylphenidate answered a 12-question questionnaire about drug consumption.ResultsThe results showed that the participants used methylphenidate without a diagnosis of ADHD and a prescription for cognitive enhancement, that consumption occurs mainly close to exams, that friends are the source of obtaining the medicine, and that doctors have prescribed the methylphenidate even without them having indicating use. There was no difference between the consumption of men and women.ConclusionIn conclusion, although no significant differences were observed in consumption between men and women, this study showed that Brazilian university students consume methylphenidate for cognitive enhancement with and without a medical prescription.