Does Ritilin, or other AD/HD medication, abuse increase college students ability to study?

Question

In colleges abuse of ritalin, or any of the newer AD/HD medications within the similar family of stimulants, is quite common. The belief is that it will assist those without AD/HD when studying, or in completion of major projects/homework.Have any studies been done as to rather use of these drugs by individuals without AD/HD actually increases ability to study and/or complete assignments? This is to say is the ability to retain knowledge and complete tasks increased when taking ritalin, or similar medications, for those without AD/HD.I'm looking only at short term affects, not any long term detrimental affects that may come from abuse.

Answer 1

The purpose of stimulants like Ritalin, or simple caffeine, for example is to prolong study time by reducing the need for sleep. There are a number of studies which confirm that lack of sleep reduces learning, retention, and test score performance.

When Ritalin is used properly by students who have ADHD, is has a paradoxical effect compared with other students, in that it allows them to focus, to concentrate on their lessons, and to learn better.

Most authorities will agree that one of the best ways to do well on an exam is to get a good night's rest beforehand. When you are well rested, your brain is performing optimally, you are fully charged with neurotransmitters, etc. and you will perform at your best.

Long term learning and retention is best accomplished by repetition, studying over a longer period of time, taking frequent breaks, etc. In other words, "cramming" or short-term, last-minute, prolonged study is counter-productive.