I'm confused by the poll. Why would healthy adults need or want to take ADHD medications?

Hi Darlene,

Good question!

The poll is in response to an article that was recently printed in Nature Magazine showing that many non-ADD adults take stimulants to improve their productivity. In fact, one in five people who responded to the poll claimed to have taken a medication like stimulants, in order to improve their concentration. These adults took the medications without a prescription; a very chilling report, indeed!

For years, clinicians and researchers have known that even in those who do not have ADHD, stimulants have been found to increase attention and focus. However, it is very dangerous, illegal and unethical to take medications like this when not prescribed by a physician.

The original article can be found at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7783201.stm .

Terry

I m basically healthy.However, I was being treated for major depression, before I

thought back to a time in the 60's, when I did really well in school, & with my art work.

It was also a time when I got ahold of some "diet" pills. I could focus, and complete

 what ever task I was doing. Now, many years later, I told my Dr. that story.I now

take 20mg. of the generic for Adderal. It was like a smoke filled room was suddenly

cleared. I regained my vocabulary, energy,can concentrate again, and I'm finding

that I can learn new techniques.The added plus, was that I had the energy to

walk for excersise, and I've lost 30 lbs., which sure helped the depression piece.

I agree with the expert. Sounds like Mark Mcguire of the office space, might as well sniff cocain or pop some speed thats what your doing by using these narcotics for advancement against those who are otherwise heathy.