Relationship between the indiscriminate use of methylphenidate and the quality of life of medical students
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: To present how the indiscriminate use of methylphenidate, aimed at promoting cognitive neuroenhancement, influences the quality of life of medical students and the associated consequences. Methods: This is a narrative literature review from the LILACS, PUBMED, SCIELO and CAPES databases using articles published in the last ten years in english and portuguese on the topic in question as inclusion criteria. Results: Seventeen articles were included in the review, of which eight were cross-sectional studies and nine were systematic reviews and literature reviews. In patients diagnosed with ADHD, methylphenidate acts directly to improve cognitive performance. However, this is not observed in healthy individuals. Studies indicate that medical students are more vulnerable to mental illness and have a poorer quality of life, and they often resort to methylphenidate to reduce daytime sleep, stay awake for longer, in addition to recreational use. Final considerations: Although methylphenidate is used indiscriminately, the negative effect of adverse reactions becomes relevant, as the benefits, in addition being temporary, do not outweigh the potential harmful effects. Therefore, many of the adverse effects of methylphenidate tend to negatively impact the quality of life of medical students.
Authors: Aline da Silva Pereira, Aurélia Cristina Andrade da Silva, Luana Typhanne Melo Carvalho, Sérgio Henrique Silva de Souza, Ronny Helson de Souza Alves, Murilo dos Santos Silva, Bruno Rogério Ferreira, Kennia Rodrigues Tassara, Denise Maria Alves de Sousa, Isabela Jubé Wastowski, Letícia Cristina Alves de Sousa, Jonas Byk
Language: English
Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4410195660