Issue date: 12/4/07 Section: Editorial

The DePauw condemns the abuse of amphetamines or brain stimulants, in general, but particularly Adderall and Ritalin. Aside from the health risks that can lead to seizers or becoming comatose, buying and selling prescription medication is against the law. Sometimes, the pills are stolen from students who are medically prescribed the pills and actually depend on them for academic success. If a person really feels they benefit from the pills that much, it may be worth it for them to set up an appointment with a doctor to see if he or she has Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. Even if extra focus is needed while pulling an all-nighter, there are plenty of legal alternatives to stimulant medication. Coffee, Red Bull or even Diet Coke provides plenty of punch. Like all other substance abuse, taking these pills may pay off in the short run, but can have serious long-term effects. There is no need to put oneself at risk or break the law in order to study when there are plenty of safer alternatives.

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