Academic Effects of ADHD Drugs

Study indicates attention deficit disorder medications don't boost intelligence, just concentration.

Researchers in the Department of Psychology at Louisiana State University are questioning ADHD medication’s ability to improve long-term academic achievement.

Studies show that many college students use stimulants to improve concentration and organization skills. But there is no proof that the medication increases intelligence, said Professor Claire Advokat at LSU. There are also many ethical issues to consider, such as misuse of ADHD drugs and using a drug to become smarter.

However, Advokat added, current studies on the effectiveness of ADHD drugs do not rule out the possibility of “cognitive-enhancing” drugs being developed in the future.

Read more about the research.