Prescription 'Mind Meds' Pose Dangerous Threat to Colleg... ( SAN FRANCISCO Jan. 23 /- Universi...)

Prescription 'Mind Meds' Pose Dangerous Threat to College Students

Date:1/23/2008

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- University students in America are turning to amphetamine-based prescription medications in overwhelming numbers to boost their focus, stay up late, and cram for finals. These meds, most often prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), can improve concentration but may also pose serious health risks.

"College campuses have changed a lot in the past twenty years. The most coveted drugs are no longer illegal, mind-altering hallucinogens, but instead, prescription, mind-sharpening pills, like Ritalin and Adderall; which may have short-term effects on mood and long-term adverse effects on health," said Meg Jordan, RN, PhD., and Clinical Medical Anthropologist on faculty at two universities

It has been reported that on some college campuses nearly 25% of students had tried ADHD drugs, many of which without a prescription. These "mind meds" are used to study for tests and stay awake, and even recreationally for nightlife. Warning labels indicate that side effects can include nervousness, insomnia and loss of appetite and, in extreme cases, anorexia and cardiac arrhythmia.

"There are plenty of ways for students to stay sharp without using amphetamines," said Jordan. "Many botanical compounds exist in nature that have mind-boosting and mood enhancement effects if provided in the correct quantities and combinations. Ginkgo and Bacopa, for instance, are known for increasing cerebral blood circulation, improving memory, focus and learning rates, while Apocynum Venetum and Chinese Club Moss assist with mood, anxiety and cognitive functions."

One alternative that Jordan recommends is a nutritional supplement called Perspective by Wellcorps International. "Its botanical ingredients, along with adequate sleep and physical activity, can do a lot more to help students gain that mental edge than a growing dependence on pharmaceuticals."

"One of our original goals in creating Perspect
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