New Study Examines College Student Misuse and Abuse of ADHD Medications

A new study has found that approximately 17% of college students have misused or abused prescription stimulants and seeks to offer guidance for future research into the issue, as well as preliminary suggestions for prevention efforts. The study found that peers with prescriptions are the most common source for those abusing the medications that are prescribed for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study reviewed data from more than 30 other studies to provide comprehensive information about abuse of these medications. In addition to rates of prescription stimulant abuse and use, the researchers identified psychological variables associated with either misusers or nonusers, including ADHD symptoms and problems associated with use of alcohol or marijuana. The study, “Misuse of Stimulant Medication Among College Students: A Comprehensive Review and Meta-analysis,” is published in Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review.