Pranav Gopal Week 14: Adderall

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I'm sure we've all heard of the infamous academic drug Adderall, a medication prescribed to treat disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. Popular knowledge even seems to associate the drug with academic performances and usages, such as in strenuous times necessitating high productivity, like in the days before a major test or project. However, Adderall seems to have a different effect on the minds of users than expected, especially when compared to popular belief. 

To start, Adderall is a medication composed of amphetamines and dextroamphetamines, which are common stimulants of the nervous system known to impact hyperactivity and impulsivity. While typically used only in cases of ADHD and other mental disorders, even those unafflicted with such disorders have been know to take the drug itself, for various reasons. For example, many claim there are several benefits from the drug, like increased focus and attention. However, for individuals not suffering from ADHD or related disorders, this likely has the opposite and inadvertent effects. 

As a result of Adderall producing high levels of enzymes and hormones in the brain, such as dopamine, those not suffering from ADHD would likely be impacted by intense euphoria-like feelings as well as high energy levels, according to Evoke Wellness. Additionally, Brainscape indicates that it may seem to be effective but really impacts the typical brain in a long list of different ways. For one, a feeling of adrenaline is simulated, resulting in increased levels of focus and clarity. As a result, energy can be dedicated in significant amounts in one select area, as your brain associates high concentration with being necessary to avoid danger and survive. Following this line of reasoning, Brainscape indicates that this area of focus, however, is not decided, and can range from the intended work or project to random aspects of the environment or train of thought. Adderall has additionally been indicated to stifle creative thoughts and versatility, as the effects tend to create a sense of laser-focus on one specific thought process or method. 

Another crucial claimed benefic of Adderall is the idea of improved cognition in areas like memory, like when used before a test to cram or prepare better. However, while improving memory recall slightly, studies indicate that the effects are only marginal and relatively insignificant. Not to mention, in those not suffering with memory or attention disorders, Adderall might even prove detrimental to people, as one study by Michael Edward Ballard, David A. Gallo, and Harriet de Wit indicates that active memory recall was negatively impacted by Adderall and related stimulant drugs. In some cases, Adderall has only really had a placebo effect, leading users to believe that they are more capable or stimulated than they are, and thus recalling or being more focused as a result. 

The inhibition of impulses and immediate gratification does result in a more focused work period, as the brain is now inclined to delay gratification and continue to work or study. As a result, productivity may increase and focus may seem better, but the actual quality of the work likely will not increase significantly. In the long run, taking Adderall for the purpose of cramming or working won't really impact overall efficiency or academic ability as a whole, but may provide a short-term and temporary burst of energy and focus. 

While accompanied by a list of apparent cognitive effects, Adderall does come with a long list of negative potential risks. For example, Brainscape indicates that users have indicated "increased likelihoods of anxiety, high blood pressure, sexual impotence, and even heart attack in otherwise healthy young adults." Rather than rely on a drug consistently for efficiency and focus, it appears a lot more beneficial to cultivate healthy work and studying habits, and would likely be more effective in development and improvement in the long run.