The Washington Post has reported that college administrators are concerned with the rise in use of prescription amphetamines such as Adderall and Ritalin. It has long been a concern that college students utilize these drugs to assist with their focus, night study and cramming for midterms and finals. An increase in the sales of these pharmaceuticals has sent an alarm to college officials concerned that the increased use will lead to dependence and abuse of other narcotics.
Prescription drugs such as these can have harmful consequences on the user especially if not taken as prescribed. Side effects include increased heart rate and panic attacks and can be deadly if combined with alcohol or otter narcotics. These drugs are primarily prescribed for use to control Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and not for individuals without a confirmed diagnosis of the malady.