Drugs traditionally used for the treatment of ADHD, ADD are now used as brain enhancers. Are these drugs safe for healthy individuals who are seeking brain stimulants for the "cognitive edge"?
A new brand of brain enhancers has hit the market. Referred to as “smart drugs,” they enhance the brain’s supply of neurochemicals by improving oxygen consumption and stimulating nerve growth. Primarily used for treating diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Narcolepsy and ADHD, smart drugs have moved into the hands of the general population, especially university students in pursuit of the academic edge. Questions are now raised not only about the safety of these drugs, but the ethics of their use in a culture seduced by the illusion of limitless perfection.
Smart Drugs as Cognitive Enhancers
Stimulants for cognitive enhancement have existed in the market for years. Caffeine and guarana have made their rounds through the general population; their effect, however, is temporary, which is not the case with cognitive enhancers. These drugs provide evidence of sustained and powerful mental acuity.
Drugs like Modafinil have been tested by the military; another drug, donepezil, prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease, has boosted the performance of pilots in flight simulation tests. Ritalin, prescribed for ADHD, has been circulating among students as a study aid. It is estimated that between 7-25% of university students have used stimulants for a purpose other than medical prescription at least once.
Read more at http://drug-abuse.suite101.com/article.cfm/what_are_smart_drugs
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