Use of methylphenidate in medical students and its impact

Abstract

Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant drug from the amphetamine family. This is used by medical students to improve their academic performance. Therefore it is important to study it. The objective of this study is to describe the use of methylphenidate in medical students, as well as its effects on academic performance and the adverse effects of its use. The study is a review of the literature in different databases. In which it was observed that medical students are the largest consumers of methylphenidate among students of all careers. And most use them without a prescription despite the multiple adverse effects that it has such as addiction, drowsiness, fatigue, agitation, difficulty concentrating, hunger, etc. Therefore, it is important to work on prevention methods for the use without a prescription. And to work on healthy ways to manage stress and academic load in this population.