Recreational stimulant use among college students

Abstract

This study investigated recreational (non‐medical) use of stimulant medication, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine salts, in a western United States university population. Researchers recruited students from introductory psychology courses to take a 33‐item Recreational Stimulant Use Survey that included questions on illicit drug use in addition to questions concerning recreational stimulant use. Of the 448 participants, 36% were males, and 89% were non‐Hispanic White. The results indicated that the overall prevalence rate for recreational stimulant use was 18%. In addition, recreational stimulant use correlated positively with illicit drug use. The perceived availability of stimulant medication, along with usage rates, were discussed and possible treatment options examined.

• Recreational stimulant use
• methylphenidate abuse
• college drug use