Prescription pill abuse on college campuses has been on the rise for the past several years. Alcohol abuse still tops the list in terms of college campus substance abuse issues. But abuse of prescription drugs is growing. Research shows that many students either abuse their own prescriptions, or offer their medication to other students. Roughly one in four college students have illegally used prescription drugs.

While there are many uses for prescription pill abuse, most students abuse amphetamine-based medications such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) medication. They do this in order to remained focused during finals week or other intensive study sessions. In recognition of this abuse, many colleges are cracking down on ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions.

Common Uses

College students commonly abuse prescription pills in order to stay focused during long study sessions or when pulling all-nighters to work on school assignments. Roughly 35% of college students take stimulants in order to help them focus on schoolwork and keep their grades high. Medications like Adderall and Vyvanse are at the top of the list of abused prescription pills. In part, this abuse is due to the easy way in which students can get their hands on these drugs. Many students who are given legal prescriptions for these pills find themselves with extra at the end of the month. In order to turn a profit, they can easily sell ten or twenty pills to their friends, or abuse the excess pills themselves.

Prescription Pill Rules

As a result, many colleges have decided to put strict rules into place concerning diagnoses and prescription pills. Some schools, such as California State University in Fresno, California, require students to go through rigorous testing and paperwork before getting treatment for disorders such as ADHD. Other colleges require students to promise not to misuse their medication in any way by signing a contract. Some colleges do not prescribe stimulants at all.

Instead, they send students to providers located off campus. Given the rampant prescription drug abuse on college campuses, these responses to the problem are appropriate. It is important for students to know that their college does not take medication abuse lightly, and that although these drugs are legally prescribed, it is illegal to abuse them. By taking such methods to ensure the safe and proper use of prescription drugs, campuses hope to reduce prescription drug abuse. To share your opinion on the matter, contact our office!