A new study found significant racial and gender differences in use of stimulants on college campuses. White students were more likely to have prescriptions for the drugs. Asians and Latinos in the study were more likely to engage in smoking prescription stimulants, which can alter the rate of release, absorption, bioavailability and reinforcing effects of the drug, which could increase vulnerability for dependence. The researchers also found that Asians and Latinos were more likely to pay more for the pills than white students. Whites were more likely to take the drugs to party longer or to improve concentration. The only gender difference was the motivation to lose weight. Women were more likely to use the stimulants for that purpose. The researchers used data collected at two California universities from 1,053 undergraduate students. The students were asked to self-report use without a prescription; use for nonmedical purposes, such as to stay awake; use in excess of what was prescribed; frequency of use; and first use. Amphetamines, such as Adderall; dextroamphetamines, including Dexedrine; and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin are commonly prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. With rising rates of ADHD-diagnosed students attending college, the availability of these stimulants has increased and paralleled a rise in illicit use of the drugs. When people take these drugs recreationally, it can lead to substance use disorders, addiction, dependence, psychosis, seizures, heart problems and even death. In this study, the researchers characterized illicit use of prescription stimulants as use in excess of what is prescribed, use without or prescription or use for non-medical reasons.

Take away: Illicit use of prescription stimulants is increasing on college campuses and there appear to be important differences in how these drugs are used by different racial groups. It’s possible that targeted interventions among Asian and Latino students could focus on the additional risks associated with smoking the drugs. Those working with young women may wish to address the use of these drugs as a weight-loss tool.

 

Cruz S, Sumstine S, Menendez J, Bavarian N (2017) Health-compromising practices of undergraduate college students: Examining racial/ethnic and gender differences in characteristics of prescription stimulant misuse, Addictive Behaviors, 68, 59-65.