More students using 'academic steroids' despite risks, ethical questions

By Kevin Leahy, Kristen Brophy and Zaheer Cassim

"When she was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as a sophomore at UC Berkeley, [...] welcomed her prescription for the amphetamine Adderall. Juggling a full load of classes with athletic pursuits and a busy social life, she seemed an ideal candidate for a drug that could help her focus on her schoolwork. ..."

"'The nonmedical use of prescription stimulants among U.S. college students is now at its highest level in 15 years,' said professor Sean Esteban McCabe of the University of Michigan Substance Abuse Research Center. ..."

"Adderall is listed as a Schedule II controlled substance by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, meaning it is illegal for anyone without a prescription to possess or use the drug. ..."

Full article available at http://www.insidebayarea.com/argus/localnews/ci_12655334