Yourwellness Magazine investigates the rise in teens using ADHD medication as a stimulant
London, UK (PRWEB UK) 9 July 2013 -- A new study found that one in 10 teenagers have used prescription stimulants or amphetamines as a way of boosting their performance in school; however, it seems that the majority of parents aren’t aware of the extent of the problem. A survey conducted by the University of Michigan Mott Children’s Hospital found that only one percent of parents of teens, aged between 13 and 17 years, believed that their child had used stimulants as study aids. Referred to as ‘study drugs’, students are using medication such as Adderall, Ritalin and Vyvanse to boost their grades and stay focused.
In the study carried out in 2012, 10 percent of high school sophomores and 12 percent of seniors admitted to having used a study drug in the past that had not been prescribed by a doctor. Dr. Matthew Davis explained that “taking these medications when they are not prescribed for you can lead to acute exhaustion, abnormal heart rhythms and even confusion and psychosis if the teens get addicted and go into withdrawal”. (http://healthfinder.gov/News/Article/676594/many-parents-unaware-of-teens-abuse-of-adhd-drugs).
Yourwellness Magazine looked into the matter further and found that ADHD medications can cause various side effects in children. While drugs are key in helping patients control the condition, there are consequences to consider. According to Yourwellness Magazine, ADHD medication can pose health problems if taken for long periods of time and can be quite addictive, as they’re made up of a chemical nature much like ecstasy or cocaine. Furthermore, they can affect one’s appetite and sleep patterns, leading to conditions such as depression and various other health disorders. Some studies suggests that they can also increase one’s blood pressure and may even lead to seizures in certain cases. (http://www.yourwellness.com/2012/12/adhd-meds-and-their-consequences/).
Michael Kitt, Yourwellness Publishing Ltd, http://www.yourwellness.com, 0208 588 9553, [email protected]
Share this article