Featuring Kevin Antshel, PhD
Some college students misuse prescription stimulant medications meant to treat ADHD, either from a lack of understanding that their behavior is misuse or deliberately, thinking it will improve their grades. Frequently students with ADHD are approached by other students who ask them to share or sell their medications, even though it is illegal to do so. What factors drive misuse or diversion, and how can this problem be addressed?
Dr. Kevin Antshel, a licensed psychologist and professor of psychology at Syracuse University, discusses the primary motivations behind stimulant medication misuse or diversion. He identifies high-risk groups and encourages awareness of counterfeit drugs among students. For parents and educators, he also discusses ways to reduce ADHD medication misuse and offers strategies for preventing medication diversion.