SOMEONE’S PILLS ARE NOT YOUR STUDY BUDDY:

The Truth About Prescription Stimulants

Prescription stimulants continue to be misused on college campuses. Using someone else's prescription stimulants isn't the academic hack you might think it is. In fact, studies show it can lower your GPA. Here's what you need to know. 

What Are Stimulants? 

Stimulants are drugs that speed up messages between the brain and body. The National Institute of Health defines stimulants as a broad class of drugs that increase the activity of the central nervous system. Stimulants can come in different forms such as caffeine or nicotine. Stimulants can also be prescribed or illicit.

  • Prescription stimulants are prescribed by a doctor to treat hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Narcolepsy, and sometimes depression or obesity (Adderall®, Ritalin®, Provigil®, and Vyvanse®). 
  • Illicit stimulants are not obtained through a healthcare provider or regulated by the Federal Drug Administration (Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Ecstasy). 

Real Talk

Why Prescription Stimulants Aren't Your Study Solution

These drugs are unsafe for misuse; although they have been cleared by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they can have serious side effects when used incorrectly. Taking stimulants with other substances, especially alcohol, can be harmful and deadly. 

 

Warning Signs Someone Might Be Misusing Stimulants 

Stimulant misuse is not always easy to spot. Over time, you may notice changes in someone’s body or behavior.

Physical Warning Signs

  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Changes to sleep
  • Shaking or jitteriness
  • Fast heart rate or high blood pressure
  • Skin problems or breakouts
  • Running out of prescriptions too quickly

Behavioral Warning Signs

  • Very talkative
  • Trouble remembering things
  • Acting overly focused or stressed
  • Racing thoughts
  • Pulling away from friends or activities
  • Lying about where they are or how they got the drugs

When Stimulant Use Goes Too Far: Overamping

Overamping can happen when someone takes too much of a stimulant or takes one that was not prescribed to them. The body can react quickly and the symptoms can be serious.

Signs of Overamping

  • Not being able to sleep
  • Severe headache
  • Chest pain or trouble breathing
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Very fast heart rate or heavy sweating
  • Shaking or muscle stiffness
  • Extreme anxiety, panic, or paranoia
  • Hallucinations or aggressive behavior

Better Ways to Crush Your Goals

Quick Study Hacks That Actually Work

  • Make a study schedule  
  • Create a to-do list with small tasks
  • Study with a friend or join a study group  
  • Take a power nap 
  • Take short breaks (Try the Pomodoro® Technique)  

Daily Habits That Make a Difference

 

A person is looking at a calendar with sticky notes on it

Lock in a Routine: Break your day into manageable chunks

A woman in a pink sweater is pouring water into a glass

Hydrate: Water is your brain's best friend

A blue plate filled with strawberries blueberries blackberries and raspberries

Fuel Up: Power foods like nuts, berries, eggs, and dark chocolate boost focus

A red and white alarm clock on a blue background

Sleep Right: Aim for 8 hours - your grades will thank you

A man with a backpack is walking down a sidewalk

Move Your Body: Even a quick walk can reset your brain and boost your mood 

Never Mix Stimulants With Alcohol or Other Substances

Mixing stimulants with alcohol or other drugs can be dangerous. Stimulants already raise your heart rate and blood pressure. When they are combined with alcohol or other substances, the strain on the heart and body can become much stronger.

This can lead to serious health problems like a fast or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, chest pain, heart attack, or stroke. Mixing substances can also affect how a person thinks and behaves. Someone may have trouble sleeping, struggle with memory or learning, or make risky choices. This can increase the chance of dangerous situations like driving under the influence, getting into fights, or taking other unsafe risks. In some cases, mixing stimulants with alcohol or other drugs can even lead to sudden death.

Learn more about the risks of mixing stimulants and substances

If You Have a Prescription

Use meds safely:

  • Get the right medicine: Tell your healthcare provider about everything you take (including over-the-counter meds, herbs, and supplements)  
  • Follow directions carefully: Don't stop or change the dose on your own without talking to your healthcare provider. 
  • Know your side effects: Ask your healthcare provider what to expect and what to avoid when taking this medicine. 
  • Never mix meds: Avoid taking stimulants with alcohol and other substances or medications. It is very dangerous to combine opioids with other drugs, especially those that cause you to be drowsy. 
  • Never share meds: It’s against the law. Even if you have a similar medical condition, it may not be the right medicine. It’s not worth the risk.

Keep your meds safe and private:

  • Store them out of sight, especially during parties and in college dorms. 
  • Use a lockable med box or pouch.  
  • Keep them in their original container 


Remember: Trying to shortcut success isn't worth risking your health or future. You've got what it takes to succeed on your own terms.