Collegiate Times

B vitamins are water soluble and are much less likely to cause toxicity than fat soluble vitamins such as A, E and D, which accumulate in fat tissue and are not excreted from the human body as easily. However, excessive doses of B vitamins can have negative effects. "Vitamin B6 can cause toxicity, and I'd be very reluctant to take super high doses," said Janet Rankin of the HNFE department at Tech. Excessive amounts of niacin, also a B vitamin, can cause flushing of the face and skin. Adderall, a common medication used in treating ADHD, is an amphetamine whose function actually closely resembles that of cocaine. Students not diagnosed with ADHD often take Adderall in an attempt to stay focused or awake for extended periods of time to write papers or prepare for tests. In the past, the drug has been used to treat obesity and depression and was even used by World War II fighter pilots to stay awake. Its effects are evident and it comes as no surprise that each year, students abuse Adderall. But along with its ability to enhance cognitive function, students should be warned of the negative effects associated with the drug.

As several other amphetamines, Adderall is illegal to sell or use without prescription. It has also been demonstrated to cause loss of appetite, insomnia and even hallucinations and heart attack. Adderall exhibits addictive properties and has even been linked to over 20 deaths in recent years.

Most people would agree that when a medication is abused or used other than how it is intended, there will always be the possibility for negative health effects. Combine Adderall's laundry list of potential health hazards with the fact that its abuse is illegal, and it seems a safer option to avoid the drug.

"The question isn't whether a dose of Adderall will help someone without ADHD to have more energy, mental alertness and stamina to study for exams, but whether the risk is worth the benefits," writes Dr. Richard Sogn on the WebMD's Web site. "If it were me, I'd rather have a couple of lattes to stay awake and alert."

While it may be tempting to abuse Adderall or heed the claims of energy drink companies, it is always best to use common sense. Excessive amounts of vitamins and small amounts of particular amino acids, all of which are present in sufficient amounts in most of our daily diets, are probably not going to help you ace a final. Abusing an illegal amphetamine is also probably not a wise choice.

However, moderate amounts of caffeine have been shown to improve mental alertness, and when combined with adequate sleep and a healthy diet, optimal energy levels may be easier to achieve than many would have you believe.

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