Illegal college ADHD stimulant distributors: Characteristics and potential areas of intervention

Alan D. Desantis, Kathryn E. Anthony, Elisia L. Cohen

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

24 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study identifies indicators of college students, with prescriptions to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) stimulants, who are most likely to distribute their medication to nonprescribed peers. 2,313 undergraduate students at a large Southeastern University were surveyed from 2009 to 2011. 5.2% (n = 120) were currently taking a prescribed ADHD stimulant. Analyses revealed that distributors are more likely to (1) take their medication less frequently; (2) misuse their stimulants for "off label" purposes; (3) be a member of a fraternity; (4) overestimate the percentages of users; and (5) belong to at-risk peer groups. The work concludes by discussing the study's implications, limitations and future research.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)446-456
Number of pages11
JournalSubstance Use and Misuse
Volume48
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2013
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Copyright:
Copyright 2013 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • ADHD
  • Adderall
  • College students
  • Diversion
  • Misuse
  • Prescription drugs
  • Stimulants

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