The first article that popped up, “The Adderall Epidemic: Speed for Success”, goes into detail explaining some of the side effects and significance of Adderall. “Researchers estimate about 30 percent of students use stimulants non-medically. This is becoming an epidemic in universities, and has even trickled down into middle school and high school communities” (Stern, 2015). I feel that this as a theme is valid in regards to the drug, specifically because the magnitude of usage is relevant to me as a student. This article included a video documentary from three students who talked about the negative effects that Adderall had on them.
Secondly, “The Adderall Epidemic” emphasized themes related to the top three reasons why students used Adderall. “84.2% found difficulty focusing or retaining information, 73.7% had a limited time to study or finish assignments, and 42.1% of students felt a pressure to succeed” (Julakanti, 2014). Another article titled “A Rising Epidemic on College Campuses: Prescription Drug Abuse” describes the significance of overall prescription drug use in the nation. “Prescription drug abuse in the nation’s fastest growing drug problem…it is the third leading cause of accidental death” (Clinton Foundation, 2014). Following this, I read an article whose theme I would describe similarly as previous articles. “The Competition Drug” illustrates a personal story of someone dealing with Adderall dependency. “The problem is that Adderall is dangerous, a Class 2 controlled substance like cocaine” (Cohen, 2013). Lastly, “Adderall: America’s Favorite Amphetamine” goes into detail about the easy availability of Adderall for students in college.
Each of the themes portrayed in the sources seem valid in regards to the drug Adderall. The regular usage of Adderall, availability in schools, and reasons for using the drug are all applicable to college students. Another theme depicted was that Adderall is classified as a Class 2 controlled substance. This is related to class material as we just recently reviewed the different classifications of drugs. Defined, Schedule 2 drugs have a high potential for abuse, however there is accepted medical use for the drug in the United States. I feel that the article that talked about the top reasons for Adderall use is an especially appropriate and relatable topic for college students. Although I personally have plenty of time to study and don’t really find it hard to focus, I know that a large percentage of students aren’t as fortunate. Being in college, we experience loads of pressure to succeed whether it be from our parents or professors. If there was a pill that could enhance student perceived ability, then students don’t really see a reason not to take it. It could be a one time or regular occurrence, but I think there are consequences. Many times, however, the benefits outweigh how one might interpret the consequences, therefore usage continues.
Prior to researching sources about Adderall, I did not consider it a problem of epidemic proportions. However, some of the statistics that illustrate the amount of Adderall used by college students make it seem like such. This is probably the primary reason that the media describes Adderall as an “epidemic.” Despite the fact that Adderall is actually a Schedule 2 drug, it is readily available in educational environments. Additionally, it has very appealing qualities that make it easily addictive. While I’m still on the edge of whether or not I would call it an epidemic, I do think that it’s something to be aware of.
References
A Rising Epidemic on College Campuses: Prescription Drug
Abuse | Clinton Foundation (2014, January 12).
Retrieved from https://www.clintonfoundation.org/blog/2014/01/12/rising-epidemic- college-campuses-prescription-drug-abuse
Cohen, R. (2013, March 4). The Competition Drug -
NYTimes.com. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/05/opinion/global/roger-cohen-adderall- the-academic-competition-drug.html?_r=0
Julakanti, J. (2014, June 11). The Adderall Epidemic | AMP.
Retrieved from http://blog.amputd.com/2014/06/11/the-adderall-epidemic/
Kent, J. L. (2013, October 29). Adderall: America's Favorite
Amphetamine | High Times. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/high-times/adderall-amphetamine_b_4174297.html
Stern, M. (2015, February 16). The Adderall Epidemic: Speed
for Success | Law Street (TM). Retrieved from
http://lawstreetmedia.com/news/headlines/adderall-epidemic-speed-success/
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